The Delhi High Court has issued a stay on Jawaharlal Nehru University’s (JNU) directive that imposed a ₹19,000 fine on students who were allegedly penalized for smiling at protesters. In the case Mr C Arjun & Ors v Jawaharlal Nehru University, Justice Jasmeet Singh ruled that the students’ behavior did not constitute misconduct or indiscipline, thereby challenging the university’s decision.
Justice Singh emphasized that the actions taken by JNU infringe upon fundamental rights and should not be tolerated. ‘As students of the respondent University, these individuals possess the right to express dissent, demonstrate, or support a demonstration through non-verbal forms such as cheering. This constitutes a significant right that must not be restricted,’ the Court highlighted.
The petition, brought forth by students, contested a show cause notice dated January 15, 2026, from the Chief Proctor’s office, along with subsequent orders dated February 2, 2026, that imposed fines on the students. The notice, which was upheld by appellate orders on March 30, accused certain students of damaging university property, including shaking camera stands and vandalizing the facial recognition technology (FRT) system.
Three students were singled out for allegedly encouraging these actions through clapping and chanting slogans during a protest on November 21, 2025. However, the petitioners argued that their involvement was limited to smiling at the protesters, a claim that the Court found credible enough to warrant a stay on JNU’s penalty.
The Court acknowledged a prima facie case in favor of the students, leading to the temporary suspension of the university’s punitive measures. Advocates Abhik Chimni, Moksha Sharma, Pranjal Abrol, Gurupal Singh, Ayan Dasgupta, and Tushar Chandra provided legal representation for the students, while JNU was represented by Senior Standing Counsel Ginny Jetley Rautray and advocate Arnav Tandon.
This decision underscores the judiciary’s role in safeguarding student rights and maintaining the balance between university regulations and individual freedoms.
