JNU Clash: ABVP and Left Student Groups Face Off During Dussehra Ravan Dahan

Tensions escalated once again at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi during the Dussehra celebrations as ABVP and left-affiliated student groups clashed over Ravan Dahan rituals. The conflict intensified when ABVP placed images of jailed former student leaders Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam on the Ravan effigy. Left student groups, including DNU, strongly protested, accusing ABVP of using religious events for political purposes.The dispute traces back to earlier allegations by ABVP that left-wing groups had shown slippers towards the Durga Puja procession, further heightening the animosity. On the day of Ravan Dahan, both sides confronted each other, engaging in shouting, slogan-raising, and, at times, scuffles. ABVP claimed the left displayed disrespectful behavior, while left-wing groups accused ABVP of provocative actions.JNU administration and police intervened to prevent escalation, ensuring that the situation did not spiral out of control. By the evening, calm was restored, and no major disorder was reported. The administration has launched an internal investigation to address complaints from both student organizations and verify the sequence of events. The incident highlights the ongoing ideological divide among student groups at JNU and the recurring tensions during religious and cultural events.