Amid CJP protests, Universities asked to counsel students to study, not divert energy

Published 22 July 2026 · india

CJP Protests ar Jantar Mantar: The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) has asked higher educational institutions to counsel students to remain focused on academics instead

CJP Protests ar Jantar Mantar: The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) has asked higher educational institutions to counsel students to remain focused on academics instead of participating in protests. In a letter to vice chancellors and directors of member institutions, AIU President Vinay Kumar Pathak said students' concerns should be addressed with empathy but warned that prolonged agitation would ultimately harm their education. The appeal comes amid the ongoing Chalo Sansad (CJP) movement, which has seen students and activists demand accountability over the alleged irregularities in national-level examinations and broader reforms to the examination system. AIU asks universities to encourage students to stay in classrooms Quick answers to key questions • 5 QUESTIONS 1 Why did the Association of Indian Universities urge students to prioritize academics during protests? ⌵ The AIU expressed concern that prolonged protests would negatively impact students' education, disrupting their academic preparation and increasing stress. 2 What specific measures did the AIU suggest universities take regarding student protests? ⌵ The AIU urged universities to counsel students with empathy, encouraging them to focus on their studies rather than participating in protests. 3 How did the government respond to accusations regarding the NEET examination process?

⌵ The government, through AIU President Vinay Kumar Pathak, assured that it remains committed to strengthening and reforming the examination system, emphasizing transparency in the recent NEET exam. 4 What assurances did Prime Minister Narendra Modi give regarding examination reforms? ⌵ Prime Minister Modi assured students that all necessary steps would be taken to ensure future examinations are conducted fairly and transparently. 5 What role does empathy play in university responses to student protests according to the AIU? ⌵ The AIU highlighted the need for universities to engage with students compassionately, recognizing their grievances while guiding them back to their academic pursuits. In the letter dated July 21, addressed to vice chancellors and directors, Pathak acknowledged that many students had been skipping classes to participate in protests following concerns over the conduct of national-level examinations. He wrote "As you are aware, in the wake of recent concerns surrounding the conduct of certain national-level examinations, a section of students on several campuses has been staying away from classes to take part in protests and agitations at considerable cost to their own studies." While recognising students' grievances, the AIU chief urged universities to encourage them to prioritise academics.