Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, made an unannounced visit to Delhi University’s North Campus on Friday, prompting strong objections from the university administration. The visit, his second such surprise interaction in recent times, has drawn criticism from university officials, even as student representatives defended the move.
In a statement released by the Office of the Proctor, Professor Rajni Abbi expressed displeasure over Gandhi’s visit, noting that the university was not informed in advance. "Today Rahul Gandhi came to the University of Delhi without any information to the authorities. He stayed in the DUSU Office for almost one hour. During this time, the DUSU was cordoned off by security cover," the statement said.
The university also alleged that members of the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), the Congress’s student wing, misbehaved with students, locked several individuals inside the DUSU Secretary's room, and prevented the DUSU Secretary herself from entering her office. "The University condemns such actions and hopes that this does not happen in the future. Strict action will be taken against students who were involved," the press release added.
Gandhi engages with marginalised students
Despite the controversy, Rahul Gandhi’s visit included a meeting with students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC), during which he discussed issues related to representation, equality, and academic justice, according to news agencies.
DUSU President Ronak Khatri, affiliated with the NSUI, defended the visit, calling it a peaceful and legitimate interaction. “There exists no rule—academic or legal—that compels the president of DUSU to seek prior permission for hosting a private or informal guest interaction, particularly when it does not constitute a public gathering or violate campus security,” Khatri said. He insisted the meeting was confined to the DUSU office and involved no disruption or breach of regulations.
This is not the first time Gandhi has made an unscheduled stop at the university. In May 2023, he visited a postgraduate men's hostel and shared a meal with students, which later led to a formal notice from the hostel’s provost. The administration had objected to the sudden visit, calling it undignified given Gandhi’s Z-plus security status.
Political reactions: BJP Terms It a ‘Photo-Op’
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) slammed Gandhi for turning the campus into what it called a “circus” for a surprise photo opportunity. BJP IT Cell head Amit Malviya shared a video clip on X (formerly Twitter) showing a woman confronting Gandhi over his previous remarks about Pahalgam and alleged disrespect to security forces.
Malviya wrote, “But amidst the staged optics, the real moment came when angry students confronted him—demanding answers about his remarks on Pahalgam, questioning the intent behind casting aspersions on our security forces and Operation Sindoor.” He added, “At a time when the entire nation is united behind our brave soldiers, the Congress would do well to remember: India is watching. And it won't forget these games.”
The incident has now escalated into a political flashpoint, with Delhi University promising strict disciplinary measures against those found violating norms, while the Congress and its student wing insist the visit was legitimate and issue-based.
Also Read: Rs 80L donated to Gandhi-led firm at Revanth's request: ED
Follow us
