John Brittas seeks President’s intervention as JNU students’ hunger strike enters 17th day - The Hindu

The hunger strike at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) began two weeks ago after a group of students alleged that they were subjected to physical assault by campus security personnel during a peaceful demonstration. The students demanded an independent investigation, the reinstatement of expelled peers, and assurances that future protests would be allowed without fear of retaliation. As the strike entered its 17th day, the participants reduced their intake to a few sips of water and fruit juice, citing deteriorating health but refusing to end the protest until their demands are met.

John Brittas, a senior journalist and former media adviser to the state government, took to social media and television interviews to urge the President of India to step in and facilitate a resolution. Brittas argued that the prolonged standoff threatens the academic environment and could set a precedent for how student movements are treated nationwide. He highlighted that JNU has historically been a crucible for political debate and that any heavy‑handed response could erode the institution's reputation as a space for free expression. His appeal has resonated with alumni, faculty members and civil society groups who have called for a swift, transparent inquiry.

The episode is being closely watched by readers across India because it touches on broader issues of campus governance, freedom of speech and the role of the state in higher education. JNU is a flagship university that attracts students from diverse backgrounds, and any disruption to its functioning can affect academic calendars, research projects and the future prospects of its graduates. Moreover, the incident arrives at a time when several universities are revisiting their disciplinary policies in response to recent protests, making the outcome of this hunger strike a potential indicator of how similar disputes may be handled in the future.