As it happened: RS descends into chaos as Smriti Irani raises Mahishasura martyrdom day issue

Mahishasura martyrdom day issue now disrupts Rajya Sabha

“I am compelled to read a few things,” said Smriti Irani.

“There is an accusation that Mehmood ki topi Ahmed par hai. Pata nahi kiski topi kiske sar pe hai…main bina topi ke hoon,” she said.

Irani then quoted a JNU document which, according to Irani’s speech, said that “the execution of Afzal Guru was a nervous attempt by Congress.”

“And it (the JNU document) also speaks about a public meeting that they have the right to hold a festival called Mahishasura martyrdom day,” she said.

Irani then said that some minority students who were protesting against this festival were beaten up by Left-leaning JNU students.

“What is Mahishasura martyrdom day?” Irani said. She then again quoted the document.

“The document said that Durga Puja is a controversial, racist festival where a fair-skinned goddess is depicted killing a dark demon,” Irani said.

She also said that document described Durga as a “sex worker called Durga who enticed Mahishasur into marriage. Every year, thousand of Durga puja pandals are erected showing her in a bad light, in a sexual position.”

As soon as Irani finished reading this out, a huge uproar erupted in the Parliament.

“What is happening here? It is highly objectionable!” thundered Anand Sharma. “Tomorrow, if any of the ministers bring in any derogatory reference, what are we reducing this House to?”

Irani counters charge of saffronisation of education

“There are many who have said that history is being distorted and all Sanghis are being put in ICHR,” said Smriti Irani. She then pointed out that there was a member of ICHR who was not, in fact, a Sanghi. “If there was an intention to saffronise education, why would I pick a scholar who is not aligned to my organisation?” she said.

“I am grateful for the anomalies which Azad sahab corrected in his speech today,” Irani said.

Uproar erupts in Rajya Sabha in the middle of Smriti Irani’s speech

Opposition members began shouting as Smriti Irani tried responding to the allegations made against her.

“What are we as a united House telling this generation of ours?” Irani said.

“Do we say to them that if you are a Dalit child belonging to an ideology not favourable to us, you can die for all we care?” she said.

Sitharam Yechury lashed out in the House and asked Smriti Irani to focus on the point at hand.

Many can be accused of identifying Rohith as a vote bank: Smriti Irani

“I have been told not to get agitated,” said Smriti Irani as she began her speech by quoting lines from Macbeth.

“I publicly pay homage to him. What I never publicly disclose that I also spoke to his mother,” said Irani. “There are many who can be accused of identifying him as a vote bank,” she said.

We are undeterred by these attempts: Naidu

“Instead of running for photo opportunities, the political leadership should ponder over why incidents like the Rohith Vemula suicide happened. The entire country should think seriously. This is not the first case,” Venkaiah Naidu said.

“The Prime Minister is very clear. The country has to go forward. We are undeterred by these attempts,” Naidu said, as he targeted the Opposition over its criticism of the government.

Don’t express solidarity with divisive forces: Naidu

“We are only requesting you not to express solidarity with divisive forces,” said Naidu.

“We cannot tolerate such activities in our universities. We cannot allow the students to be influenced by fringe elements,” said Venkaiah Naidu in Lok Sabha.

Some people are eulogising Yakub Memon: Naidu in Lok Sabha

“In the Yakub Memon case, Supreme Court held a session in the middle of the night. Some people are eulogising Yakub Memon,” Venkaiah Naidu said.

Venkaiah Naidu takes a dig at Chidambaram over his remark on Afzal Guru

“A former Finance Minister has said that perhaps there are doubts about Afzal Guru’s involvement in the Parliament attack,” Naidu said. “Nobody has the right to say this after the Supreme Court verdict.”

Lakhs of student leaders were put behind bars in your(Cong) regime under MISA, and you are telling us about dissent?-Venkaiah Naidu in LS

— ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2016

Nobody has fought against the ultra Left like we have: Yechury

Before he was told by the Deputy Chairman to sit down, Sitharam Yechury said, “Nobody has fought against the ultra Left like we have.”

Don’t camouflage this issue: Jaitley

“I would only urge this: The accused have been arrested. The investigations are on. The Home Minister has said the police will be more than fair. Please don’t camouflage the offence which has taken place,” said Jaitley.

“You should be more vigorous in speaking against terror than we are,” the Finance Minister also told the Congress.

Congress lost two PMs to terrorism; they should condemn this more strictly than we are: Arun Jaitley #JNU

— ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2016

Purpose of this debate is not to point fingers at each other: Anand Sharma to Jaitley

An angry Anand Sharma, in response to Jaitley accusing Opposition parties of supporting ‘anti-nationals’, said, “The purpose of this debate is not to deepen the fissures and point fingers at each other. Let’s not distort the facts…Was the JNU faculty responsible for the anti-national slogans?”

Should the police have remained a mute spectator while anti-national slogans were raised? asks Jaitley

“Without thinking, don’t give respectability to those who talk about breaking the nation,” said Jaitley. “Should the police remain a mute spectator if anti-national slogans are raised in the heart of India?” he added.

“I think the JNU is an integral part of India. And therefore, the Indian law applies. And if the Indian Penal Code is violated, the police has the right to enter the university,” Jaitley said.

“The tragedy is not only that anti-national slogans were raised. It’s also a tragedy that national parties were supporting those people,” he said.

At this point, Ghulam Nabi Azad interrupted and said, “The sedition charge should only be against those who did something wrong. Don’t make this debate about who is anti-national.”

‘Vandalism is condemnable but sedition is free speech?’

“Of course, what happened in Patiala House is condemnable. But vandalism is condemnable. And sedition is free speech?” said Jaitley.

“Vandalism is condemnable. But here’s what the leftist philosophy is in this case: ‘Let us concentrate on vandalism, which is condemnable. But at the same time, sedition must become a part of free speech.’ Can hate speech become free speech?” he said.

“The question is: Does the Indian constitutional order allow this? To say that this kind of act must be ignored by the state is wrong. It is an issue over the geography and territory of India which is under attack today,” he said.

No academic freedom will ever be in peril in this country: Jaitley

“The pamphlet (at JNU) is more against the government which the UPA led. It said: ‘Kashmir did not belong to Nehru. Nor does it belong to Manmohan or Modi.’ All of the accused belong to an ultra-Left philosophy. I won’t say anything against the accused because it might prejudice the trial against them,” said the Finance Minister.

“Some other people came with masks. Maoists and separatists came to the event. And these people said, ‘Kashmir ki azaadi tak, Bharat ki barbaadi tak jang chalegi jang chalegi.’ What was the police supposed to do?” he said.

Pamphlet at JNU event was titled ‘a country without a post office’: Jaitley

“Our fairness of the system was that not only did the accused (Afzal Guru) get a fair trial, but he also got several rounds of petitions with the Supreme Court. The system went out of the way to accommodate a person aganst whom there was a grave charge,” Jaitley said.

“Can anyone say that his martyrdom should be celebrated? Let us be clear about the kind of functions that were organised in Hyderabad and JNU,” he said. “The Congress has had a history of never supporting the fringe. Here is a group of people who call for this cultural programme on 9 February. The pamphlet was titled ‘A country without a post office’…The pamphlet said the ‘judicial killing’ of Afzal Guru,” he said.

‘Are we going to give respectability to those whose primary ideology is that they’re going to break this country?’

“If some student belonging to a weaker section of society suffers mental distress, that issue has to be discussed,” said Jaitley. “The core issue does not relate to the amount of academic license that exists,” he said.

“Youngsters do many things and when they grow up, they realise they shouldn’t have done many of those things,” said the Finance Minister.

“Some amount of radical romancing can also take place in institutions,” he said.

“But are we going to give respectability to those whose primary ideology is that they’re going to break this country?” he said.

We are missing or side-tracking the real issue: Jaitley

“Should we have universities where there is openness and freedom? Can there ever be an argument in a democracy like ours that there should be only one ideology?” Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said, in response to Ghulam Nabi Azad in Rajya Sabha.

“Let us settle this debate. Neither the NDA nor the UPA says only one idea must grow,” Jaitley said. “We are entitled to be criticised. I have no difficulty with that,” he added.

They were supporting a terrorist at that university: Najma Heptulla

“This temple of democracy exists today because soldiers have given their lives for their nation,” said Najma Heptulla, in response to Ghulam Nabi Azad’s speech. “At that university (JNU), they were supporting a terrorist,” she said.

‘Deal with those who actually made anti-national slogans in a different way’

“What is happening today is like a war. We are telling people some of them are more nationalist than others,” Ghulam Nabi Azad said. “Deal with those who actually made anti-national slogans in a way different from those who did not make any anti-national slogans,” he added.

“In the Patiala House court complex attack, the government was trying to save the BJP MLA,” he further said. He also called for a House committee to probe this issue.

Take action against those behind doctored videos: Ghulam Nabi Azad

“Action should be taken against those people behind the doctored videos who are trying to break the nation. Those are the people against whom a sedition case should be filed,” Azad said. “And the media was encouraged by the ruling party to make these videos,” he added.

Azad also mentioned the journalist who resigned from Zee News over this issue.

Let there be a debate on nationalism, thunders Ghulam Nabi Azad in Parliament

“These institutions (like JNU) were made by organisations under Jawaharlal Nehru. And you are trying to ruin these institutions,” said Azad.

We don’t have HRD Ministry’s energy: Ghulam Nabi Azad

“We are explaining everything to you with a lot of love. Please don’t react,” said Ghulam Nabi Azad as the BJP MPs in the House began getting restless after his speech. “After all, we don’t have the kind of energy which the HRD Ministry has,” he added, after which even Smriti Irani erupted in laughter.

‘Why has ABVP come on the centre stage in Delhi?’

“The ruling party is making an issue out out of who is an anti-national and who is not. I want to tell them, ‘Sheeshe ke mehel mein rehne waale doosron par pathar nahi pheka karte’ (Those who live in glass palaces should not throw stones at others),” said Ghulam Nabi Azad.

(Updates begin for 25 February)

Ghulam Nabi Azad criticises Smriti Irani over Rohith Vemula suicide issue in Rajya Sabha

“You can imagine how much the boy was harassed…He was called an anti-national and thrown out of college,” Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi said as he criticised HRD Minister Smriti Irani over the Rohith Vemula suicide issue.

Dissussion on the suicide of Rohith Vemula and JNU row ends in Lok Sabha. Question Hour begins.

Our govt believes JNU is a centre of excellence: Rajnath Singh

“Our government believes that JNU is a centre of excellence, not centre of ati-national activities,” says Home Minister Rajnath Singh. 

“Under no circumstances police would be allowed harass any inncocent students. Regarding the incidents in the Patiala House Court the police has already upon it and I assure the House the guilty will given exemplary punishment,” Singh said.

Meanwhile, students begin a rallying cry at JNU’s administrative block. Slogans include: “Jo Kashmir hamara hai sara ka sara hai…Indian army zindbad,” “Kashmir se le kar kanya kumari Bharat mata hai humari” and “Doodh mangoge to kheer denge…Kashmir mangoge tow cheer denge”.

Wish Rahul Gandhi helped me to tackle tensions in JNU, says Irani

“If we make education a battleground, if we make children vote banks then the country would be in the path of self-destruction. Had Rahul Gandhi requested me to accompany him to JNU and jointly appealed to the students to remember what nationalism is I would have happily gone. But he did not do that. My request is help me build this not destroy it from within,” says Irani while concluding her speech.

I am looking at this class 4 book by Teesta Setalvad, commissioned by Kapil Sibal during UPA,see what all is written-Smriti Irani in LS

— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2016

I have said it time and again that 'shiksha ko ranbhoomi mat banao'-Smriti Irani in Lok Sabha

— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2016

JNU executive council not appointed by NDA, says Irani

“Executive council that ousted Rohith Vemula was appointed by UPA, not NDA," Smriti Irani tells Lok Sabha.

“I look at the poster of Rohith Vemula and think that he never knew that he was used,” Irani says. 

She refers to a post on Mahisasur Martyrdom Day. It refers to Goddess Durga as “sex worker” who tricked Mahisasur, a dark skinned man and killed him later. 

“Is this freedom of speech? I want to know if Rahul Gandhi, Saugata Roy or Saugata Bose would like to discuss this freedom of speech. I fail to understand the depravity of these so-called students,” the minister said pointing to the empty Congress benches as the largest party has staged a walkout.

In his statement, Rohith Vemula said no one was responsible for his death: HRD Minister Smriti Irani in Lok Sabha pic.twitter.com/DsfGAaTdVp

— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2016

An angry Smriti Irani rises to speak; is she trying to fight off tears?

“I am disturbed by the fact some people are questioning my integrity as a minister. I have solved thousands of issues that have come to me in my capacity as a minister,” says a rather fiery looking Union HRD Minister Smriti Irani in Lok Sabha. 

She challenges Congress MP V Hanumantha Rao as to why he asked on what authority she wrote to the Hyderabad Central University. Irani shows all the letters that Rao as a MP addressed to the minister seeking her intervention in the HCU.

Uneasy prevails in the Opposition benches as the minister flashes letter after letter written by the parliamentarians seeking her intervention on different matters. From Kerala CM Oommen Chandy to former HRD minister and Congress leader Shashi Tharoor she spares none. 

“Today you are accusing me of biasness. Had I wanted to use the ocassion to put counter allegations I would have done that in the press conference I did the other day,” Irani tells Lok Sabha. 

“Meri naam Smriti Irani hain. Meri jaati kya hain bataon,” says a teary Irani in Lok Sabha. 

Allegations and counter-allegations fly between TRS MPs and the Union HRD minister.

“No doctor was permitted to go near Rohith Vemula. No attempt was made to revive the child. Even the police was allowed next morning. If the vertebrate does not break and even if the pulse falls down to 30 or 40 he can be revived. Who declared him dead?” says Irani.

“I am not certifying your idea of India. But do not demean mine,” the minister says.

Point to ponder!

“Haathi ke daant khane ki aur, dikhane ki aur. Very well said by my friend Jyotiraditya Scindia. But I am confused if he was referring to the UPA or NDA?” says Anupriya Patel from Apna Dal.

Where was your patriotism when PDP termed Afzal’s hanging as travesty of justice? asks Asaduddin Owaisi 

“Where were you when the present Punjab CM burned down the Indian Constitution? Where were you when the PDP with whom you are partners in J&K said that the hanging of Afzal Guru was travesty of justice? Where was your patritism then? Whatever is happening in JNU is wrong. Had (Union Minister) Bandaru Dattatreya did not write that letter, had HRD Minister Smriti Irani not ordered action Rohith Vemula would have been alive,” says All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen MP Asaduddin Owaisi.

We hanged Afzal Guru, while you(BJP) entered into an alliance with a party which was against Guru's hanging-Mallikarjun Kharge in Lok Sabha

— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2016

Stop scoring political points by defaming other parties,we will not back down-Mallikarjun Kharge in LS to Govt pic.twitter.com/5WsNZVImwa

— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2016

Mr Rahul Gandhi. Are you serious?

Firstpost senior editor Akshaya Mishra says: Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi says the BJP-led government won’t allow him to speak because they are scared of what he will say. Well…well, want to have a smiley here but cannot find one. Actually, the Congress is doing rather well in the House debate even without him speaking. Jyotiraditya Scindia was quite impressive in his attack on the government. Seniors leaders sure would do fine given their experience in debating. So Rahul’s skills won’t be missed much. He should keep the powder dry for another day, another occasion. As for the government getting scared about what he might say, we are curious.

Remember our martyrs, says Venkaiah Naidu

“Who is innocent? Afzal Guru? Maqbul Bhat? Remember the jawans who gave their lives. If Kashmir is negotiable why should these people lay down their lives?” asks Union Minister Venkaiah Naidu in Lok Sabha.

Some laughs in Lok Sabha after hours serious debate

Union Minister Venkaiah Naidu addresses the Chair as “Madam’’ and suddenly stops finding Hukmdev Narayan Yadav in the Chair.

“Oh! Madam covert ho gaya. Sir, aa gaye,” he quipped forcing the House into peels of laughter.

We cannot compromise India, says Venkaiah Naidu

“Disappointed with many speakers again as many are trying to score political points.Since 2006 nine students apart from Rohith Vemula committed suicide in the Hyderabad Cenral University. The university administration should probe why this was happening? The main issue is what are the circumstances that forced these students to commit suicide,” Naidu said while commenting on the Rohith Vemula suicide.

“It is wrong to connect the Rohith Vemula suicide with whatever happend in JNU. In JNU, Maoists have made entry into the campus but in a different form,” he said.  

“Some of my colleagues without knowing what was happening in JNU went an expressed solidarity. They should have enquired before expressing solidarity. Who is Afzal Guru? Had the terrorists succeeded on that day none of us from this generation of parliamentarians would have been alive. I was in Parliament that day. Afzal Guru is a Pakistan backed terrorist,” the minister said.

“We cannot compromise India,” sais Naidu.

When parliamentarians make you happy

Firstpost senior editor Akshaya Mishra says: We berate our parliamentarians too much. We keep complaining that they waste public money through pointless disruptions and they have no real concern for the country and its people. The fact is our parliamentarians can get serious about work when the situation demands. And contrary to the popular perception there’s a lot of knowledge and wisdom going around in both Houses. The debates, particularly those coming from senior leaders, make you sit and wonder, and pinch yourself. The back-benchers sometimes make you squirm though. When the front benches empty out and the back benchers replace them, would the quality of debate remain the same? The talent is yet to reveal itself.

Sleepy already? Blame yourself

Firstpost senior editor Akshaya Mishra says: If the debate is making you feel sleepy don’t blame anyone. You choose to watch it and you always had the remote around. Don’t tell me you did not know beforehand what would be spoken in Parliament. Of course, you knew what the Congress is going to say and how the BJP would respond. You also have decided which side to take. What you wanted was some real, blistering action. It’s not happening. Come on, for that you need to go to theatre near you or perhaps a bar. Parliament is a place for sober, serious and life-changing debates. You are waiting for excitement in the wrong place.

If his background caused Rohith’s death, we need to introspect: Chirag 

LJP MP from Jamui constituency in Bihar Chirag Kumar Paswan displays the corporate look and focusses on youth power in flawless Hindi. 

“If students from the JNU or any other university try to get their agenda in focus by indulging in anti-national activities then it should be dealt with sternly. My politics is completely different. I represent the sentiments of the students and not of any caste and creed,” Paswan said in Lok Sabha. 

“Can anyone from this House say whatever happened with Rohith Vemula was correct? These are all sensitive matters and should be dealt with sensitivity. If Rohith’s suicide happened due to his background then it is high time for us to introspect.”

Is this the quote of the day?

“If the students fight it is a storm in the cup. Why do you react?”

Venkaiah Naidu intervenes

Union Minister Venkaiah Naidu intervenes and objects to branding of the entire JNU fraternity as anti-national by Palakkad MP from Kerala MB Rajesh in Lok Sabha.

“No fool on earth can brand the entire university as anti-national,” Naidu said.  

“We want the university to flourish. There is no morphing of photographs. Those who are involved have changed their stand now,” the minister said.

TRS MP Konda Vishwashrar Reddy

Speaking on the Rohith Vemula suicide TRS MP Konda Vishwashrar Reddy said, “Institutions have become insensitive. The VCs of Central universities say that they are not accountable to anybody but to the HRD ministry. This has to change. The autonomy of the insitutions are being destroyed. This happened during the last government’s tenure as well. My constituency has become a hub of political tourism.” 

The MP represents Chevella seat to which the deceased Rohith Vemula belonged. 

“Just as secularism cannot be patent of the Congress, nationalism cannot be patented to BJP. When two elephants fight, it is the grass which suffers. But we are not grass. We are the voice of this country.”

Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav

Participating in the debate on the JNU row, SP supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav said, “Leaders like Sitaram Yechury, Prakash Karat have passed out of the JNU. We cannot allow anti-national sloganeering in a prestigious university like the JNU. But we also should not harass innocent students.”

“There should be a thorough investigation whether anti-national sloganeering or activities happened in the campus. If someone is found guilty, the person should be punished strictly.”

#BREAKING | Rajya Sabha adjourned till tomorrow
(File image) pic.twitter.com/TvuySG32yf

— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 24, 2016

Ajay Singh of Firstpost writes:

Jyotiraditya Scindia, young Congress MP and erstwhile prince of the Gwalior estate,  proved to be the chip of the old block by displaying his best oratorial skill in the Lok Sabha debate on the issues related to suicide of Rohith Vemula and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) episode. Like his father Madhavrao Scindia who was one of the most acerbic critic of the RSS-BJP combine, Jyotiraditya scindia was ruthless in attacking the treasury bench and made many senior BJP leaders squirm in their seats.

For instance, he launched a scathing attack on union HRD minister Smriti Irani for writing letters to the HCU authorities and goading them to take action against Vemula leading to his suicide. Irani tried to defend herself but Scindia refused to yield and stood his ground. He did not falter even when Irani accused him of  using hindi work “kukarm”, equivalent of rape in English, while referring to her (a woman minister)’ “If that is how you do your politics , I will respond to it” she said,

Scindia was however unfazed and unequivocally pointed out that the government has been deliberately selecting university campuses where its political ideology is challenged. He referred to union home minister Rajnath Singh’s statement about involvement of Lashkar e toiba chief Hafiz Saeed in the JNU episode and said that how could the minister be so ignorant of the fact. Apparently, Scindia’s comments made Singh uncomfortable in his chair. He pointedly referred to the sedition charges slapped against students while rampaging lawyers and BJP MLA OP Sharma were allowed to go scot free after attacking students and journalists.

There was no doubt that Scindia was at his best in the debate and caused great embarrassment to the BJP. Apparently Scindia emulated his late father Madhavrao Scindia who once described the RSS-BJP combine as “anti-national” at the peak of Ayodhya agitation in which, incidentally, his mother Vijayaraje Scindia was a key participant.

BSP holds Parliament proceedings to ransom

Sanjay Singh of Firstpost writes, “It has been proven yet again that even 10 members can hold proceedings in Parliament to ransom. BSP chief Mayawati with only 10 members in Rajya Sabha and zero member in Lok Sabha, forced yet another adjournment in Upper House, not because her voice was not being heard but because of a personal whim that the government must respond to her charter of demands first, before any discussion could take place. Even as the House reassembled after 10 minutes, a similar scene continues.”

Parliament logjam continues

Akshaya Mishra of Firstpost writes: One person talks and nobody listens. Then everyone starts talking at the same time and nobody listens. Now, that’s how you have a debate, India style. Did you seriously expect the Parliament session to be smooth with sober debates taking place? If you did, you probably didn’t watch the previous sessions or you belong to another era when politics was less competitive and a lot less shriller. The culture of polite conversation and patient dialogue died long ago. My bet, there would be no debate. Fingers crossed.

BSP-BJP understanding in Rajya Sabha to create rucus nd Not let discussion on JNU happen in RS- Allege Left Sources

— Ashish K Singh (ABP News) (@AshishSinghLIVE) February 24, 2016

BSP-BJP understanding in Rajya Sabha to create rucus nd Not let discussion on JNU happen in RS- Allege Left Sources

— Ashish K Singh (ABP News) (@AshishSinghLIVE) February 24, 2016

Two more professors added to inquiry committee

Two more professors added to inquiry committee for #JNURow; both the professors are from Arts Faculty (JNU).

— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2016

Why are the accused not surrendering? asks ABVP worker

An ABVP worker, participating in the protest in New Delhi, said, “We believe in the Constitution of India. We believe in the judiciary. Why are these people not surrendering?”

“Our demnads are that all those responsible for the anti-national activities should be arrested. We also demand that all political parties should condemn these activities in one voice,” he told Times Now.

Whoever wants to talk in Parliament can talk: Rajnath

Bolne se hamari sarkaar kisi ko rokegi nahi. Jo bhi Parl mein bolna chahta hai, bol sakta hai: HM on Rahul Gandhi pic.twitter.com/qVbVnII17j

— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2016

Lok Sabha adjourned till 2.15 pm

In the tu-tu-main-main of cut and thrust politics, ordinary citizens are doomed to watch the same drama that played over the last two sessions repeat.

And going by Smriti Irani’s combative approach to demands of her resignation, it seems BJP has decided to fight fire with fire.

So it’s a deadlock. No checkmate for any side.

Nation in the grip of victimisation?

India seems to be in the grip of an epidemic of feeling of victimisation. A few days ago, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had talked about a conspiracy to tarnish his image. A few hours ago, Rahul Gandhi told media that there may be a conspiracy to not allow him to speak in Parliament. And now lawyer Chauhan claims people are out to get him. If only he had taken the precaution, not the one prescribed by Gyan Dev Ahuja, before opening his mouth in front of a hidden camera.

Delhi: ABVP to hold protest march over #JNURow from Ramlila Ground to Jantar Mantar pic.twitter.com/tjVJ2n8XBA

— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2016

Media running hate campaign against me: Vikram Chauhan

Vikram Singh Chauhan, the lawyer who was caught on camera beating up journalists at the Patiala House court complex, said that the charges against him were false.

“Three to four channels are running a hate campaign against me…Is there any footage against me? Some news channels are doing this on purpose to malign me,” Chauhan said. “I am not from any organisation, I am just an Indian citizen,” he added.

“I never raised an anti-India slogan, but media is glorifying the man who raised the anti-India slogans. Media called us lawyers gundas,” he said.

Ye jo media mereko roz gunda banakay pesh kar rahein hain, kya ye complainant hain mere khilaf? : Vikram Chauhan pic.twitter.com/7EC2HnOGNi

— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2016

As far as the Parliament is concerned, the beauty of debates is that nobody emerges changed out of these. Views remain the same; a debate is only a way of re-emhasising one’s position. This applies to the audience too. So expecting the debate in Parliament on nationalism to change the ground reality is expecting too much. The basic conflict here is between two views of nationalism – one of the RSS and the other of the Gandhi-Nehru vintage. Positions of major parties parties are pretty clear on it. The fence-sitters will continue to be fence-sitters.

ABVP stages protest in New Delhi

Shouting ‘Bharat mata ki jai’ slogans, ABVP workers are protesting against the ‘anti-national activities’ in New Delhi.

Vikram Chauhan reaches Tilak Marg police station

Vikram Chauhan (accused in Patiala House attack) reaches Tilak Marg Police Station to join investigation. pic.twitter.com/kRJeSExFxy

— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2016

Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2 pm

’Dalit-virodhi ye sarkar, nahi chalegi, nahi chalegi’

‘Dalit-virodhi ye sarkar, nahi chalegi, nahi chalegi’ slogans are now being heard in the Rajya Sabha.

Uproar continues in Rajya Sabha

Opposition members continue protesting and shout slogans like ‘Rohith ke parivar ko nyaya do! (Give justice to Rohith’s family!)’ as Hamid Ansari tells them, “Apni sehat ka khayaal rakhiye (Take care of your health).”

Bassi opposing Kanhaiya’s bail plea because he now needs witnesses: Bombay HC lawyer tells Firstpost

Initially, Bassi did not oppose bail because he had video clips and that meant he did not need witnesses. Now, the video clips are turning out to be doctored, which means Bassi needs witness testimonies to make his case, a Bombay High Court lawyer told Firstpost.

Kanhaiya Kumar’s position as JNUSU president could mean that he could potentially influence witnesses who were present at that demonstration. The remaining accused are ‘absconding’ (technically not arrested). Kanhaiya Kumar’s release means they could all go underground or off the radar. Police is opposing bail at this point. If witness statements had been recorded initially instead of relying on a video clip which is still pending verification, the police would have had their case in order. 

Kumar is being deprived of his liberties primarily because of the incompetence of the Delhi Police conducting a thorough investigation.

The nationalism debate in Parliament is irrelevant in itself since the topic has been debated extensively out of it and it’s clear who stands where. The message that players on both sides of the debate send out to their constituents is critically important. It will shape how things play out on the ground in the coming days. The BJP’s emphatic defence of its version of nationalism will be a clear message to all elements of the Sangh Parivar to ‘go ahead’. It’s a loaded expression.

Video footage not the only evidence against Kanhaiya: Delhi Police

Sources have told ANI that in a report submitted to the Delhi High Court, the police said that Kanhaiya Kumar actively participated in unlawful assembly which raised anti-national slogans.

The police also reportedly said that video footage is not the only evidence they have against Kanhaiya. They said they also have eyewitnesses to prove the charges.

Why Mayawati led the protests in Rajya Sabha

As the Raja Sabha met after 10 minute of adjournment, the scene was characterised by deja vu. Not without reason, BSP chief Mayawati raised the issue of Rohith Vemula’s suicide vehemently in the question to take the wind out of the parties’ sails. In view of the UP election, Mayawati cannot afford to let the ruling party and principal opposition, the Congress, monopolise the debate on Dalits. She was quite conscious of nearly 25 percent of the Dalit votes that form her strong support base in the country’s largest state.

And Rohith Vemula’s suicide is learnt to have evoked strong emotion among Dalits of UP and turned them against the BJP. This is the precise reason why the BSP disrupted the functioning to pre-empt any attempt to appropriate sympathies of Dalits. Taken aback by the BSP’s tactical brilliance, the Congress and other parties also joined in and vociferously supported Mayawati’s demand to reveal the facts of the inquiry constituted to probe Rohith’s suicide and circumstances.

Knowing it full well that the attack would come against the government from all quarters, the BJP fielded HRD minister Smriti Irani who showed uncharacteristic aggression in defending herself. She, along with minister of labour Bandaru Dattatreya, has been accused of goading the Hyderabad Central University (HCU) administration to take action against Vemula. In the ensuing din, the House was adjourned second time. The crux of the issue was that parties are engaged in a fierce competitive politics to claim their pro-dalit credentials.

12 bills to be considered in this Session

The earlier two sessions had gone without any meaningful businesses being taken up as the Opposition vehemently disrupted the House, raising issues including the rising intolerance. In this session, 12 bills are to be considered and passed, 4 bills, including the Finance Bill, listed to be introduced, considered and passed, 2 new bills to be introduced and other 2 to be withdrawn.

It is important that the Opposition allow Parliament to function and take the debate forward with maturity and responsibility. What India needs now is a debate, a battle of ideas. The Opposition should by now have been aware of the perils of slogan-shouting and rabble rousing and how they just add to hostility and deepening of divides.

Now that almost everybody has been forced to come out in the open and take up positions in the Parliament over this issue, the debate rages on with full ferocity and force of conviction. How we conduct this debate will decide the contours of our parliamentary democracy and public debates.

If the first hour of a fresh session in Parliament is any indication, we are in for an encore of the last two sessions. Little else by way of legislation or even discussion will ensue. There will be very little work undertaken. We should be prepared to see political posturing and counter-posturing in teh days ahead.

Debate between secular and Hindutva nationalism has begun

It is good that the debate between secular nationalism and Hindutva nationalism has begun in India. For this, we should be grateful to the recent tide of events.

Mayawati laying groundwork for 2017 UP polls?

There seems to be a clear shift in government strategy to tackle House proceedings. Faced with an unrelenting Opposition, where Maywati was leading the charge, the government seemed to be in a more aggressive mood. As soon as House proceedings started, Mayawati raised Rohith Vemula issue and demanded the resignation of HRD minister Smriti irani. It seems the BSP leader is in no mood to relinquish her Dalit card to the Congress or the AAP. Going by the aggressive posture, it seems clear that groundwork for 2017 UP elections is being laid right now.

Rajya Sabha adjourned till 12 pm

Start the debate right now, right here: Smriti Irani

An angry Smriti Irani now shouts in the Rajya Sabha, saying that the government is ready for a debate. She also alleged that the Opposition is using “a dead child to play politics”.

Sitharam Yechury steps in

“Mayawatiji was only asking whether the inquiry committee (to probe the Rohith Vemula suicide case) will include a Dalit member or not,” said Yechury in the Rajya Sabha.

Delhi Police has moved the lower court to get a police remand. Public prosecutor Shailendra Babbar says police will try to extract more evidence against the accused.

No end to protests as the Rajya Sabha resumes

“We will give answers to Mayawati and the other Opposition members,” says Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi even as Opposition members continue shouting slogans in the Rajya Sabha as the session resumes. “The opposition has a frustrated agenda,” Nadvi also said.

Chaos likely to continue in Parliament

The mood in Rajya Sabha, where opposition MPs have wasted no time in creating a ruckus, gives an indication of how this session will stay true to the script that has now become a norm in past two sessions.

Rajya Sabha adjourned for ten minutes

As the slogans continue in the Rajya Sabha, the Deputy Speaker adjourns the House for 10 minutes.

‘BJP, RSS murdabad’ slogans heard in Rajya Sabha as the House descends into chaos

We are ready to provide answers: Naqvi

Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi responds to Mayawati and says that the government is ready to give answers. Mayawati, however, continues protesting and calls for a probe into Rohith Vemula’s suicide.

Pehle sarkar jawab de: Mayawati

Leading the protest in Rajya Sabha, Mayawati has demanded answers from the government over the suicide of Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula.

Opposition members storm Well of the Rajya Sabha

Shouting slogans against the Modi government, the Opposition members stormed the Well of the Rajya Sabha.

Uproar erupts in Rajya Sabha over JNU row

As expected, Opposition members have started protesting and shouting in the Rajya Sabha over the JNU row.

The discussion on JNU and controversy surrounding the suicide of Rohith Vemula in Hyderabad Central University is unlikely to reduce the bitterness that exists between the treasury bench and the opposition. The government’s willingness to hold the discussion on these contentious is driven by the desire to project its reasonable and restraint face.

Other JNU students likely to surrender today

According to reports, other JNU students including Rama Naga, Ashutosh Kumar and Anant Prakash who allegedly also raised anti-India slogans, are expected to surrender before the Delhi Police today.

Delhi HC concerned about Kanhaiya’s safety

The Delhi High Court also expressed concern over the safety of Kanhaiya Kumar. “We have to ensure that they do not even suffer a scratch,” said the court, according to ANI.

Delhi Police say they will move plea to further remand Kanhaiya Kumar.

Kanhaiya’s bail hearing adjourned till 29 February

The Delhi High Court has adjourned JNUSU president Kahaiya Kumar’s bail hearing to 29 February.

Is it part of a dip stick strategy of JNUSU to see what happens with Umar Khalid and Anirban Banerjee and then surrender the rest of the students? Or is it to stretch things to collect more headlines on an issue where the government seems, at least going by the media narrative, on the back foot? Is it to drown out the budget week which is seen as critical for this government?

As Umar and Anirban surrender before police, one question begs answer: what about the other three students who are in the campus?

JNU row hits Budget Session

The Congress has moved an adjournment motion and Left parties and JD(U) are protesting at Gate No.1.

(Updates begin for 24 February)

Will be better if Opposition parties voice concern inside Parliament: Naidu

Venkaiah Naidu, the Parliamentary Affairs minister, says it will be better off if the opposition voice their concern inside the Parliament rather than protesting outside the House.

Naidu says the government will not bow down to any protest and he urged the opposition to initiate discussion and debate in the floor of the House.

Kejriwal says govt alienating support, he could be true

Akshaya Mishra of Firstpost writes, “Arvind Kejriwal tells government ‘sudhar jao’, Rahul Gandhi has been telling this for a long time in different words about Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The only problem, Modiji won’t listen neither would his government. Maybe the students would make both take note. Janta aapko ukhad phekegi, Kejriwal said. But he will have to wait for that long, more than three years to be more specific. But he has a point when he says the government is alienating all sections – the youth, the Muslims, the Dalits etc – that voted it power. That should be more worrisome for the government than the immediate problem. It should start the ‘sudhar jao’ programme quickly."

Students seen protesting in Delhi

‘Modi ji, sudhar jaiye’: Kejriwal

Debobrat Ghose of Firstpost writes: Arvind Kejriwal said at the rally, “If someone try to go against the nation, he won’t be spared. Similarly if innocents will be harassed like centre is doing it won’t be tolerated. Modiji ab bhi samay hai sudhar jaiye, warna janta AAP ko ukhaad phekegi.  (People will throw you out Modiji if you don’t mend your ways of dealing).

Kejriwal vs Modi: A match of oratory
Akshaya Mishra of Firstpost writes, Arvind Kejriwal gets it right, at least the punch part. His speech was typically to the point and blunt. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s oratory marks him apart from almost all contemporary politicians, that of Kejriwal also deserves a special mention.  Modi’s is more weighty, impeccable in selection of words, correct in terms of punctuation and pauses; all of it backed by a showman’s flourish and body language. Kejriwal’s is all from the heart, more folksy. The lack of gravitas in the voice is more than made up by aggression. And like Modi, he knows what to speak and how to reach out to the audience. 

Delhi HC refuses to grant interim protection from arrest till tomorrow to two JNU students, Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya, accused in a sedition case, reports PTI.

Khalid must surrender, says Delhi HC

However, even as Khalid’s plea was adjourned for a day, the Delhi HC made it clear that he has to surrender before the police.

Umar Khalid’s petition to be heard on Wednesday

Even as the hearing on Umar Khalid’s petition seeking protection has been posted for Wednesday by the Delhi High Court, the BSF units attached to Delhi police have been removed from outside JNU, CNN-IBN reported. Whether the move will reduce tensions at the campus will be seen in the time to come.

Meanwhile Arvind Kejriwal has said that the central govt has opened a front against Dalits and the students of the country. The govt ‘must understand the consequences of its actions’, the AAP chief has said.

Arvind Kejriwal clarified that he is not against reservations, after a few students shouted slogans against him, calling him ‘anti-reservation’

When did I say I am against reservations? I have always supported them-Arvind Kejriwal pic.twitter.com/giffzMFdeM

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Man raises 'Aarakshan virodhi Kejriwal' slogan when Delhi CM was speaking at a protest march at Jantar Mantar #JNU pic.twitter.com/jveARt8Pcr

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Arvind Kejriwal said, “If someone try to go against the nation, he won’t be spared. Similarly if innocents will be harassed like centre is doing it won’t be tolerated. Modiji ab bhi samay hai sudhar jaiye, warna janta AAP ko ukhaad phekegi." (People will throw you out Modiji if you don’t mend your ways of dealing).

Firstpost’s Debobrat Ghose from Jantar Mantar

Arvind Kejriwal: I ask the government don’t suppress the voice of dissent. Every citizen has the right to question us — we, the politicians. Rumours spread that I am against reservation. Let me tell you I am not against but in favour of reservation. Centre should. Stop its one sided agenda in educational institutions.
Modiji students se pange mat Lena. Agar karoge to yeh students aapke kursi ko hilaa denge, AAP ko pata bhi nahi chalega. But Modi government is suppressing every dissent.  This government seems to be in war with students. Everyone is angry against Modi government.

Firstpost’s Debobrat Ghose from Jantar Mantar

Key take-aways from Arvind Kejriwal’s speech in Jantar Mantar at the protests for Rohith Vemula: 

Arvind Kejriwal said that educational institutions should be left to educationists and that there should be no interference in that. He warned Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the students and youth who played an important role in bringing him to power, could very well dethrone him. Kejriwal said that RSS and BJP have given a new definition to nationalism — for them, he said, Nathuram Godse is a nationalist, whereas Kanhaiya is an anti-national. Kejriwal said, “Saare luche lafange nationalist hain, aur Aamir Khan, Rohith Vemula anti-national hain” (All the thugs and loafers are nationalist, whereas Aamir Khan and Rohith Vemula are anti-nationalist)

Firstpost reporter, Tarique Anwar

Why is BS Bassi treating JNU students as guilty until proven innocent?

As commonsense and  patronising as this may sound, Bassi’s statement has an essential and fundamental flaw — the law of our land is fundamentally postulated on the principle that  any accused is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Read this Firstpost article .

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal joins the protest at Jantar Mantar seeking justice for Rohith Vemula

Arvind Kejriwal was stopped by some students who started shouting, “reservation virodhi Kejriwal murdabad”, they were controlled by another set of students. However, Kejriwal asked the organisers not to stop them or shut them out for raising slogans because the fight was was against curbing the voice of dissent. “Everybody has a right to raise a voice against reservations,” he said and clarified that he was not against reservations but that he in fact had fought for it. 

Firstpost reporter, Tarique Anwar

Is the government readying itself for a confrontation?

The government has shown no inclination to speak to the students so far. It appears set for a confrontation with them. The police commissioner, Bassi, just said that the accused are misusing the JNU campus and police deployment outside it has been enhanced. So far the authorities have not allowed them access within the campus. They have stayed out of it respecting convention. However, they could move in once there’s a political decision. The decision has to be political, or at least it would be read as political. The confrontation would assume a much bigger dimension after that.

Firstpost senior editor, Akshaya Mishra

Dalit and being a student is a dangerous combination

The issue at Jantar Mantar is Rohith Vemula, not so much the JNU students. However, the fact that a few of those facing police action at JNU are Dalits provides a common theme to the agitation. The government better be aware. Dalit and students make for a lethal combination. For a party eyeing a victory in the crucial Uttar Pradesh assembly election next year, it’s time to be careful about its moves. The Mayawati-led BSP is likely to jump in to give the current agitation a clear political colour soon. 

Firstpost senior editor, Akshaya Mishra

Home Minister Rajnath Singh briefs Prime Minister Narendra Modi on JNU standoff

Why Kejriwal could mean trouble: 

What should be troubling the government and the BJP at this point is the involvement of Arvind Kejriwal in the students’ agitation. Both consider him to be a zero with no significance but added to a number the zero becomes a force-multiplier. Adept at street politics and given his strained relationship with the BJP, he could spell trouble. However, it depends whether his participation at the rally at Jantar Mantar is only symbolic or it means more. We have seen independent support to the students but not a wider political alignment across party lines taking shape so far.

Firstpost senior editor, Akshaya Mishra

Bassi on opposing Kanhaiya’s bail:

Delhi Commissioner of Police said that since there is no imminent threat to life and property, they are working careful and their “tactics are dynamic”. If Kanhaiya Kumar gets bail, he is bound to influence the investigation, said Bassi and this was the reason the police opposed bail. 

If Kanhaiya Kumar comes out on bail, he is bound to influence investigation and witnesses that is why we have opposed his bail : BS Bassi

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

The circumstances have changed, if #Kanhaiya comes out on bail we are sure he will impact investigation: BS Bassi pic.twitter.com/Tz7jfqTpOt

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Since there is no imminent threat to life & property so we are working carefully, our tactics are dynamic: Delhi CP BS Bassi #JNURow

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Kejriwal has now reached the protest venue, Firstpost’s Tarique Anwar reports.

CPM leader Brinda Karat to Firstpost:

Different flags we see here tells that different voices have gathered under an umbrella to fight out unitedly. This is not Rohith’s suicide, this is  institutional killing of Vemula. BJP, RSS want to have a single agenda across universities in India. HRD minister Smriti Irani and netas of her ilk won’t ever understand the pain of a dalit mother like Radhika Vemula. Modi  government can do anything to suppress dissent using lathis and police but we’ll take up Rohith’s voice. This government cannot suppress voice of students and dalits.

"Tum kitne Kanhaiya pakdoge, har ghar se Kanhaiya nikalega" & "Hum chahate azaadi" slogans raised at Kashmir Uni pic.twitter.com/w4ue7sP7lw

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

"Support to Kanhaiya" & "Azaadi" slogans raised at Kashmir University (Srinagar, J&K) pic.twitter.com/Ef1Y88wyvC

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Update: 

Delhi High Court to take up Umar Khalid’s plea for security at 4 p.m. today.

Rahul makes another insipid appearance

Rahul Gandhi has made an appearance at Jantar Mantar to express solidarity with students. It is one of his many such appearances in trouble spots in recent months. Has he managed to make political capital of the ‘opportunities’ that is coming his way? No. He continues to look a wanderer with no intention for deep engagement with his subjects. He continues to make the same statements – against the prime minister, against the government in general, but with no depth. If he has a message it hardly comes through. It was another lacklustre appearance among students today.   

Firstpost senior editor, Akshaya Mishra

Has the government burnt the bridges with students? 

Student movements have always proved catastrophic for ruling dispensations in the country. Does the student agitation over the police action on JNU students have enough steam to be a threat to the government? Right now, the picture is unclear. But the crowd at Jantar Mantar sends a very strong message. Any wrong move from the government henceforth could aggravate an already fraught situation. It appears to have already burnt the bridges with the students through some careless remarks from ministers and there is no stopping the loose talk. Will the prime minister or the home minister intervene to cool things down or will they allow it to fester? The choice is critical to how things shape up in future.

Firstpost senior editor, Akshaya Mishra

Creation of anti-national hysteria is deliberate, says AAP spokesperson

CYSS, the sudent wing of Aam Aadmi Party has also joined in the protest, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will arrive shortly to address the students. 

Ashutosh, one of the spokespersons of AAP says anti-nationalism hysteria has been deliberately created by the BJP to hide its valour on the front of governance. “Those who never believed in the Constitution and never hoisted the National Flag (RSS) are now talking about nationalism. It’s surprising,” he told Firstpost. When asked if the issue is being politicised, he said, “We are the first ones who intervened in the JNU crackdown and showed that ABVP students were shouting pro-Pakistan slogans. CM Kejriwal spoke to Home Minister Rajnath Singh seeking immediate action.”

JNU an ideology, not just an institution

Speaking to Firstpost, MP from Supaul said that JNU was not just an institution, but an ideology. The MP was present at the university yesterday and is also present at the protests in Jantar Mantar. He said, “Though I am not in support of sloganeering, the crackdown on the campus is not right. Students have the legitimate right to debate. Police action on that cannot be tolerated."

Firstpost’s Tarique Anwar reports from Jantar Mantar: 

A theme song at the massive protests seeking justice for Rohith Vemula’s death and action against the JNU ‘crackdown’ is, “Jeena hai toh marna seeko, kadam kadam pe ladna seekho” (If you want to live, learn how to die, at every step of the way, learn to fight)

Rahul Gandhi backs demand for anti-caste “Rohith Act’

Addressing student protesters Rahul Gandhi has backed their demand of a new law- a ‘Rohith Act’ against caste-based discrimination. The government is stifling Dalits and adivasis, the Congress vice-president has alleged.

With major political leaders stepping into the controversy over sedition and ‘anti-national’ activities, the issue has gone beyond the JNU campus.

Govt stifling dissenting voices, says Rahul Gandhi

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi has thrown his hat into the political ring over the JNU row, and has accused the government of trying to ‘stifle voices of dissent.’ " He has said that the government ‘is not listening to the voices of young students."

“We need a country where people are free to air their views…The RSS and BJP want to impose only a single ideology on the people,” Rahul Gandhi said.in his signature husky voice.

Protests spread to Bhopal

Protests over police action on JNU students now appear to be spreading to other parts of the country. A group of NSUI students organised a protest on the JNU row in Bhopal. India Today footage showed water cannons being used to disperse agitators.

According to The Indian Express, the key demands of the protesters in New Delhi seeking justice for Rohith Vemula are: 

• Enact ‘Rohith Act’ against caste discrimination in education spaces. 
• Remove Appa Rao from the post of Vice Chancellor
• Employ family members of Rohith at the University of Hyderabad
• Pay a minimum compensation of Rs 50,000 lakh
• Drop the ‘false’ police cases against the five research scholars 
• Appoint a special public prosecutor in Rohith’s case 
• Constitute a judicial inquiry (non MHRD members) into all cases of discrimination and harassment of Dalits, Adivasis, OBC, religious minority students in all higher educational institutions 
• Implement affirmative action policies in all higher education institutions, irrespective of the management of the colleges.

Student protests in New Delhi: 

Rahul Gandhi, Arvind Kejriwal and a few other leaders from Aam Aadmi Party present. The Rohith Vemula issue has assumed bigger proportions, it would appear.

The march is being led primarily by students from Hyderabad Central University, but students from all over the country have joined in. The march has become more significant in the wake of Kanhaiya Kumar’s arrest and the JNU row. 

A number of students from across Mumbai universities and colleges have started a petition seeking the immediate release of Kanhaiya Kumar.

Delhi Police report against Kanhaiya: 

4 evidences filed against Kanhaiya Kumar, JNU Students Union president

Instances of 28 ‘anti-national’ slogans 

(as reported by India Today)

Teachers and students across the country unite for the protest march seeking justice for Rohit Vemula’s death.

Student groups protest in Delhi demanding justice for Rohith Vemula. Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal and Rahul Gandhi will join the protest march in the Capital. 

Delhi: Student groups hold march demanding justice for #RohithVemula pic.twitter.com/rGHzXYQWBj

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Student protests in Delhi

The National Capital Region is also being shaken student protests in support of Rohith Vemula who committed suicide in University of Hyderabad. The JNU row and Rohith Vemula’s suicide have both sparked great debate in the country about the freedom of speech, the right to dissent, police brutality and overreach.

#JNURow: HC asks police to file status report of probe in Kanhaiya case by Wednesday – Firstposthttp://www.firstpost.com

The Delhi High Court will hear Umar Khalid’s “urgent” plea for protection today. 

Delhi Police submits report against Kanhaiya Kumar to High Court. The report claims that Kanhaiya was seen in the footage shouting anti-national slogans; a law and order situation was created on JNU campus. High Court has also agreed to hear Delhi Police’s plea seeking permission to enter Jawaharlal Nehru University.

Earlier, Shailendra Babbar had told, Firstpost that they would oppose Kanhaiya’s bail plea “tooth and nail”; ANI on Tuesday reported that Shailendra Babbar said that it was BS Bassi’s personal opinion when he said that they would not oppose his bail plea. 

BS Bassi saying we won't oppose Kanhaiya's bail plea was his personal opinion- Shailendra Babbar (SPP, Delhi Police)

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Shailendra Babbar also said that they have enough evidence against the accused and the others accused of sedition to be able to proceed with the charges in court. 

We've enough evidence against this accused &rather whole lot to proceed under charges of sedition- Shailendra Babbar pic.twitter.com/k4dPdEJs0r

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Delhi Police SPP Shailendra Babbar said that they would oppose Kanhaiya’s bail plea, “200%”

200% we shall oppose the bail plea- Shailendra Babbar, SPP (Delhi Police) on whether Delhi police will oppose Kanhaiya Kumar's bail plea

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

We will hear your plea if you file application seeking contempt proceedings against the lawyers: SC tells Prashant Bhushan 

Prashant Bhushan asks SC to take contempt action against lawyers caught admitting to have beaten Kanhaiya in Patiala House Court (cont)

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

(cont) on the basis of sting operation done by a TV Channel #JNURow

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Delhi HC to hear plea seeking directions to police to arrest five JNU students

Delhi HC also agrees to hear another plea seeking directions to police to arrest five JNU students, reports PTI

SC considers plea for contempt 

PTI reports that the Supreme Court has agreed to hear a contempt action plea against three lawyers who were caught on camera boasting about how they thrashed JNU’s Student Union president Kanhaiya Kumar when he was in police custody.

Shiv Sena’s Sanjay Raut said that if police could enter the Chief Minister’s office in Chandigarh, then why are they afraid to enter JNU and arrest the poeple who allegedly raised anti-national slogans? 

Police can enter CM’s office in Chandigarh then why do they fear to enter #JNU & arrest ppl who raised anti-national slogans?-Sanjay Raut,SS

Report submitted to BS Bassi in JNU case

An investigation team in the JNU case has submitted an interim report to Commissioner BS Bassi. The report mentions eyewitness’ statements, Kanhaiya’s presence and video footage against Kanhaiya.

The report mentions eyewitness' statements, Kanhaiya's presence & video footage against Kanhaiya. #JNURow

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Delhi HC to listen to another petition

Delhi High Court has agreed to hear another petition seeking directions to Delhi Police to enter Jawaharlal Nehru University and arrest Umar Khalid and others accused to sedition. 

Delhi HC agrees to hear another petition seeking directions to Delhi Police to enter JNU & arrest Umar Khalid & others accused of sedition.

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Delhi HC seeks status report on Kanhaiya Kumar’s bail plea

#JNURow: Delhi High Court seeks status report on JNUSU President Kanhaiya Kumar's bail plea, hearing to resume tomorrow.

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

The report mentions eyewitness' statements, Kanhaiya's presence & video footage against Kanhaiya. #JNURow

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Bail hearing postponed for tomorrow

Kanhaiya’s bail plea to be heard on 24 February by the Delhi HC. Delhi Police oppose bail; HC asks for a status report.

#BREAKING | Delhi police opposes bail for Kanhaiya. Bail hearing postponed till tomorrow #SeditionDebate pic.twitter.com/MdpqLdiDT2

— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 23, 2016

Gandhi likely to join march at Jantar Mantar today over Rohith Vemula issue

Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi likely to join march at Jantar Mantar today over #RohithVemula issue.

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Delhi police tells LG that they have no confidence in lawyers appointed by govt 

The Delhi police wrote to LG that they have no confidence in the lawyers appointed by the Delhi government and suggested four new names including Addl Solicitor General.

 Jung orders removal of Rahul Mehra 

L-G orders removal of Rahul Mehra as the government counsel in Kanhaiya case — he is a known supporter and appointee of the AAP Govternment. Tushar Mehta has been appointed as the police counsel. 

#EXCLUSIVE | CNN-IBN gets L-G's letter naming Tushar Mehta as Police counsel pic.twitter.com/HM36NMlBLV

— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 23, 2016

#EXCLUSIVE | Rahul Mehra a known supporter and appointee of the AAP Govt: Sources
LIVE: https://t.co/lh3mmupIyt

— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 23, 2016

Security has been beefed up at the Delhi High Court premises

There is high security outside Delhi High Court today ahead of the JNUSU President Kanhaiya Kumar’s bail plea hearing today. 

Security outside Delhi High Court ahead of JNUSU President Kanhaiya Kumar's bail plea hearing today pic.twitter.com/BavQ5ac7Pd

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

LG Jung tells Delhi govt’s standing counsel not appear

LG appoints four lawyers for Kanhaiya Kumar’s case to appear for state, asks Delhi Government’s standing counsel Rahul Mehra not to appear.

LG appoints four lawyers for Kanhaiya Kumar's case to appear for state, asks Delhi Government's standing counsel Rahul Mehra not to appear.

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Umar Khalid to move Delhi High Court, seeking security to surrender.

#FLASH Umar Khalid & others to move Delhi High Court, seeking security to surrender. #JNURow

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2016

Kanhaiya Kumar’s bail plea to be heard by Delhi HC today

JNU Student Union president, Kanhaiya Kumar’s bail plea will be heard today by the Delhi High Court after the Supreme Court dismissed the petition on 19 February after which he was remanded to Tihar Jail.