It necessitates a fundamental shift in attitudes and behaviors, grounded in principles of consent, respect, and gender equality.
In recent years, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in India has found itself embroiled in a troubling narrative of increasing sexual harassment cases within its campus premises. Once celebrated as a bastion of progressive thought and academic excellence, the university now grapples with a growing surge in incidents that undermine its reputation and, more importantly, the safety and dignity of its students.
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renowned for its vibrant intellectual environment and culture of activism, has historically been a melting pot of diverse ideologies and perspectives. However, beneath the surface of this academic utopia, a darker reality persists—one marred by instances of sexual harassment and misconduct. The recent upsurge in reported cases has sparked outrage and prompted urgent calls for action from various quarters.
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Central to this escalating concern is the issue of gender-based violence and harassment, which has plagued educational institutions across India for decades. JNU, often hailed as a progressive institution, is not immune to these pervasive societal challenges. The campus, characterized by its open discourse and inclusive ethos, should ideally serve as a safe haven for all its members.
The Case
It has come to our notice that on the intervening night of 30-31 March, around 2 AM, 4 people affiliated with the ABVP were found harassing female students at the Ring Road in presence of JNU security guard. They were found harassing and using derogatory remarks directed at the students.
JNUSU strongly condemns this act of sexual harassment. It was further noted that when the survivor went on to complaint, the security took her ID card. In the same breath, when the vehicle of the perpetrators was caught, their ID cards were not taken.
Even on being asked repeatedly, the CSO has outrightly denied to provide ID card information of the perpetrators. This is a clear attempt to intimidate the survivor and shield the perpetrators, which further strengthens the rotten roots of Brahmanical patriarchy.
We would like to state that JNUSU will not tolerate any attempts at normalising such acts, or any attempts at shielding perpetrators. The students of JNU must unite against such normalisation of sexual harrassment and the lax attitude of the Admin and Security in dealing with such grave cases.
Rage Amongst Public
Colleges and universities often lack adequate support systems for victims of sexual harassment. This can include a lack of trained counsellors, inadequate reporting procedures, and a lack of transparency and accountability in disciplinary processes. Without proper support, survivors may feel isolated and discouraged from pursuing justice.
Jawahar Lal University Students’ Union has called for a protest demonstration on 31st of March at 9:00 pm at the Sabarmati Dhaba so as to reinstate GSCASH and full fledgedly reject ICC. The fight against sexual harassment within JNU transcends mere institutional reforms—it demands a collective reckoning with entrenched power structures and patriarchal norms that perpetuate gender-based violence.
Conclusion
As the chorus of voices decrying sexual harassment grows louder within JNU and beyond, it is imperative that this momentum be sustained and translated into tangible action. The pursuit of justice and dignity for survivors must remain paramount, guided by principles of empathy, solidarity, and unwavering resolve.
