JNU protest erupts after students remove facial recognition system at library

A dispute over new security measures at Jawaharlal Nehru University turned disorderly when members of the JNU Students’ Union removed a facial recognition system placed at the entrance of the Dr B R Ambedkar Central Library and threw the equipment aside, alleging that the university was attempting to introduce surveillance without student consent.

Students began gathering near the library soon after the devices were noticed, and the situation grew tense within minutes.

Videos circulating on social media showed protesters pulling the machines from their mounts and discarding them while chanting slogans. Security staff tried to intervene, but the crowd pushed ahead.

Student representatives said the administration had installed the system quietly, without any discussion with campus bodies.

They argued that the university should first address long-pending library concerns, including overcrowded study areas, broken desks, poor water facilities, and the lack of a dedicated reading room.

Union members also said the administration had made a similar attempt earlier but backed off after strong objections on campus and disciplinary action issued to several students.

They claimed that a committee set up to study the matter had not finalized its recommendations, yet the system was installed again. One student leader alleged that the move amounted to an invasion of privacy.

University officials called the destruction of equipment a serious violation. A senior JNU administrator said a report from the security department had been sought and that “appropriate action will be taken” after it is examined.

The confrontation has reopened debate on monitoring systems inside universities, the transparency of administrative decisions, and the extent to which students must be consulted, increasing friction once again between JNU authorities and the student union.