New Delhi: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge censured the central administration on Friday after the University of Delhi and Jawaharlal Nehru University published advisories instructing students to avoid ongoing demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, accusing authorities of converting educational institutions into "propaganda outlets" intended to intimidate youth.

Writing on X, Kharge contended that the government is degrading esteemed academic bodies, arguing that such actions illustrate why students have taken to the streets.

"Students are on ground zero, because Modi Govt is now using these much-respected universities as propaganda outlets to bully them. Instead of making Dharmendra Pradhan resign and then start a meaningful discussion on the Education System, Modi-Shah have resorted to denigrating our centres of learning. Now you know why our youth are on the streets. Now you know how BJP damaged the Education system in the past 12 years!" he stated.

Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi similarly condemned the University of Delhi directive, accusing the institution of intimidating learners for engaging in lawful political expression.

"How dare you threaten students for exercising their democratic rights? Please note, you are the ones that will be held accountable when the time comes," Gandhi posted.

The criticisms followed formal notices released by campus administrations. The University of Delhi urged students and teaching staff to steer clear of unlawful assemblies at Jantar Mantar, citing potential legal penalties, security hazards, and negative repercussions for professional and academic prospects.

"Dear students and faculty, your safety matters to us. Please note that any unlawful assemblies or demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, which are strictly regulated as per the directives of the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India, may invite legal action," the university cautioned, while alleging that misleading material is being propagated to exacerbate tensions.

Jawaharlal Nehru University issued a parallel statement, declaring: "All stakeholders of JNU's epistemic community are advised to act responsibly and prioritise their personal safety. In accordance with the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India's directions on public demonstrations, you are requested to refrain from participating in or visiting gatherings at or around Jantar Mantar, New Delhi."

The institution warned that infringements could trigger legal ramifications and internal disciplinary measures under its code of conduct.

The campus directives arrive amidst ongoing unrest surrounding the NEET-UG 2026 examination controversy and persistent calls for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to step down. The dispute has generated a parliamentary impasse during the Monsoon Session, with opposition members demanding Pradhan's dismissal prior to any legislative debate, while the administration maintains it is prepared for discussions.

The standoff follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement on Thursday vowing harsher measures against examination fraud, including a forthcoming Cabinet review of proposed legislation establishing fast-track judicial bodies and severe penalties for offenders.

ANI