Jamia Millia Islamia odd-semester exams shifted to virtual mode amid protests

Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) announced today, October 29, 2026, that it has extended online classes until November 24, 2026, and shifted all odd-semester practical, viva, fieldwork, project, minor project, and theory examinations to virtual mode. This decision, issued by Registrar Prof Md Mahtab Alam Rizvi, affects all students enrolled in odd-semester courses.

The university cited the prevailing campus situation and concerns over safety and security as reasons for the move. This development unfolds amidst ongoing student protests demanding a fixed timeline for Students’ Union elections, including a written commitment from the administration.

Revised Examination and Academic Schedule

The decision to transition to virtual examinations was made at a meeting involving deans, heads of departments, directors, and officials at the FTK-Centre for Information Technology (FTK-CIT). This marks a further extension of online classes, which were previously set to continue until November 8, 2026.

The revised schedule outlines specific dates for the online conduct of various examinations, followed by the winter vacation and the start of the even semester.

Context of Student Protests and Demands

The shift to online academic activities occurs against a backdrop of sustained student protests at the Jamia Millia Islamia campus. Student groups, including AIDSO, AISA, AIRSO, DISHA, the Fraternity Movement, MSF, SFI, SIO, and United Students of Jamia, have been demanding a clear and fixed timeline for Students’ Union elections.

Their key demands include the drafting and approval of the Students’ Union Constitution by December 20, the announcement of the election date within 15 days of the Constitution’s approval, and the completion of the entire election process by February 5. Protesters also seek assurance that no disciplinary action will be taken against those participating in the agitation.

Allegations and Standoff Between Students and Administration

Student groups have reported that discussions with the administration, including a delegation of teachers led by the Dean of the Faculty of Sciences, indicated a potential meeting with the Vice-Chancellor. However, students alleged that this promised meeting did not materialize.

The administration verbally conveyed a revised proposal for the draft Constitution to be completed by December 20, approved within 20 days of drafting, and the election date announced within 15 days. Students, however, stated that this proposal lacked a written commitment and that discussions were halted before their demand for a direct meeting with the Vice-Chancellor was addressed. They have affirmed that their hunger strike and sit-in will continue until a firm commitment is provided by the administration. The university, in turn, has alleged that campus property was damaged during the ongoing agitation.

Further reading

• Jamia Millia Islamia extends online classes, announces virtual exams and winter holiday dates
• MCA in Data Science and Machine Learning: Delhi NCR 2026 admissions and fees

Written by Nishit Kumar

Nishit Kumar is a senior EdTech industry leader with over a decade of experience in building and scaling education platforms, shaping their product, content, and growth strategy. At FindMyCollege, Nishit oversees content and editorial strategy, guiding topic selection and content frameworks to ensure accuracy, relevance, and student-first value across the website.

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