Students of the (NLUO) “National Law University Odisha” have initiated an indefinite protest by citing a range of unresolved grievances against the university administration, that began on 24th January 2025. This protest addressed significant problems that are faced by the university students as years of neglect towards the essential infrastructure, student welfare, and administrative transparency. The student body alleges a pattern of administrative apathy and disregard for their concerns.
WHAT ARE THE KEY ISSUES RAISED BY THE STUDENTS?
The issues fueling the protest include inadequate infrastructure, arbitrary use of administrative power, a dysfunctional grievance redressal mechanism, breaches of student privacy, and suppression of student expression. Students reported that they have restricted access to the academic block after class hours, coupled with persistent problems with Wi-Fi connectivity, air conditioning, and are left with degraded washroom conditions. They also claim restricted access to library resources as well.
Furthermore, the administration's handling of student mental health is under scrutiny, with allegations of insensitive remarks and a lack of genuine support. The following remark, about student’s mental health by the professor, raises concern
As per the students, the frequent changes to examination and their evaluation patterns, which they claim to be implemented without any consultation, are creating unnecessary stress. They also point to the implementation of Hostel and Proctor Rules that grant sweeping powers to authorities, including the ability to impose punitive measures like suspension, which students argue presumes guilt before inquiry.
The students allege these actions violate University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines. A significant point of contention is the claim that the Dean of Academics, who has been accused of making insensitive and derogatory remarks targeting the students, chairs the Students Grievance Redressal Committee, which is creating lack of trust within the system. The students also claim a significant data breach occurred on November 11, 2024, when Aadhar and personal data of over 1200 students was allegedly leaked, violating their privacy rights. They express fear of reprisal if they report the breach. Finally, students allege that the administration uses tactics like show-cause notices to silence dissent, creating an atmosphere of fear and hindering their right to a conducive learning environment. A clear disconnect persists between the administration's perspective and the demands of the protesting students, as evidenced by the Dean's email:
The students' protest underscores a deep disconnect between the administration and the student body. Their demands center on immediate action to address the systemic issues they have raised, including infrastructure improvements, transparent administrative processes, a functional grievance mechanism, and respect for student rights and privacy. The situation presents a challenge for the NLUO administration.
A constructive dialogue and a willingness to address the students' concerns are crucial for restoring trust and ensuring a positive learning environment. The hope remains that a mutually agreeable solution can be found, allowing the university to move forward and focus on its core mission of legal education.
Written by Rahul Gulati
