Jawaharlal Nehru University

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) was established in 1969 by an act of parliament. The university was named after Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister. It was founded with the vision of providing high-quality education and promoting research in the social sciences, sciences, and humanities. JNU has since become one of the leading universities in India, known for its academic freedom and vibrant student politics. The university introduced innovations in its academic structure and curricula.

The first convocation of Jawaharlal Nehru University was held in February 1972. This event marked a significant milestone for the university as it celebrated its first batch of graduates. The convocation was attended by several dignitaries, and it set the academic and cultural tone for the university in the years that followed. JNU's commitment to academic excellence and its emphasis on producing graduates who are critically engaged with societal issues were highlighted during the ceremony.

In 1983, Jawaharlal Nehru University experienced a significant student strike protesting against mandatory attendance policies and the university administration's decisions. The students demanded greater academic freedom and the right to make decisions regarding their education. The strike led to police action where many students were arrested and detained. This event was a defining moment in JNU's history and was a precursor to the university's strong tradition of student activism and political engagement.

In the early 1990s, Jawaharlal Nehru University underwent a significant expansion by establishing several new schools. These included the School of Computer and Systems Sciences, School of Environmental Sciences, and others that broadened the academic offerings and research capacities of the university. This expansion allowed JNU to diversify its academic portfolio and to attract a wide range of students from different academic backgrounds, enhancing its role as a leading research university in India.

In 1999, Jawaharlal Nehru University was awarded the Visitor's Award for Best University. This award is given to central universities in India and is highly prestigious. The award recognized JNU for its excellent academic record, innovative teaching methods, and its contributions to research in various fields such as social sciences, language, and humanities. JNU's vibrant intellectual environment and emphasis on critical thinking have made it a leading institution globally.

Jawaharlal Nehru University has been at the forefront of promoting diversity and inclusion within its campus community. In 2006, the university took significant steps toward implementing affirmative action policies, including reservations for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and marginalized communities. These initiatives were part of JNU's broader commitment to social justice, aiming to create an equitable academic environment that reflects the diversity of Indian society.

In December 2010, Jawaharlal Nehru University celebrated its 40th anniversary. The celebrations included a series of academic and cultural events that showcased the university's achievements over four decades. Numerous alumni and distinguished guests attended the events, which highlighted the university's role in shaping intellectual discourse in India. JNU's commitment to inclusive and progressive education was reaffirmed during the festivities.

In February 2016, Jawaharlal Nehru University was embroiled in controversy following an event organized by some students to protest the execution of Afzal Guru, a convict in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack case. The event included slogans that were considered anti-national, leading to widespread media coverage and political debate in India. Several students were arrested for sedition, sparking protests and raising questions about free speech and nationalism. This incident became a pivotal point in discussions about academic freedom in Indian universities.

In March 2018, Jawaharlal Nehru University announced the introduction of several new courses aimed at broadening the academic curriculum and keeping up with emerging fields of study. These courses included programs in the sciences, social sciences, and humanities, reflecting JNU's dedication to providing cutting-edge and interdisciplinary education. The move was part of the university's efforts to remain at the forefront of academic innovation and to cater to the interests and needs of its diverse student body.

On January 5, 2020, Jawaharlal Nehru University witnessed violent clashes on its campus. A masked mob entered the university and attacked students and faculty members, causing numerous injuries. The incident drew national and international condemnation and raised concerns about the safety and security on university campuses in India. It also intensified ongoing debates about political interference in academic institutions, with allegations of complacency against the administration.