Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has imposed fines totaling ₹1.79 lakh on two hostel students for alleged violations of hostel rules, including allowing outsiders into their rooms, consuming alcohol, and using a hookah. The students have been instructed to pay the fines within five days, according to official notices issued on January 8.
The first student was fined ₹80,000 for multiple infractions. The notice stated, “Twelve unknown individuals were found in your room consuming alcohol and creating a disturbance on the hostel premises in your absence.” The fine included ₹60,000 for unauthorized entry of outsiders, ₹2,000 for drinking, ₹6,000 for possessing an induction stove and heater, ₹2,000 for using a hookah, and ₹10,000 for aggressive behavior, interference in official matters, and intimidation of hostel staff.
The second student was fined ₹99,000 for similar violations, which occurred on December 22, 2024, and January 5, 2025. The notice alleged that several outsiders were present in the student’s room on both occasions, where alcohol was consumed. It further claimed, “The Warden Committee and security personnel attempted to open your room at that time, but you did not open the door.” The breakdown of the fine included ₹85,000 for allowing unauthorized individuals on two occasions, ₹2,000 for drinking, ₹2,000 for possession of a hookah, and ₹10,000 for aggressive and disruptive behavior.
The notices warned both students that failure to pay the fines within the stipulated time could lead to further disciplinary action, including eviction from the hostel. “Any future complaints or violations will result in your immediate eviction from the hostel without prior notice,” the notices added.
The penalties have sparked criticism from some quarters. Kunal Kumar, former president of Sutlej Hostel, criticized the fines as excessive and called them an act of extortion. “In a university where the semester fee is only ₹200, students are being fined amounts ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹1.5 lakh. These fines are being imposed on those who do not support the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP),” he alleged.
No immediate comment was available from the hostel warden regarding the fines or the allegations of bias. The hefty penalties have ignited a debate over the proportionality of the punishments, as well as concerns about possible politicization of disciplinary actions within the university.
