New Delhi: Muslim leaders and alumni of Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) have strongly criticized Vice Chancellor Mazhar Asif for allegedly attempting to alter the university’s minority status. They claim that Asif has modified the institution’s ordinance to increase non-Muslim student admissions, potentially threatening the Muslim quota. Critics argue that this move aligns with the BJP-led government’s agenda to dilute JMI’s minority identity.
Concerns arose after Asif took charge, with allegations that his changes aim to undermine Muslim education at JMI. The introduction of an Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) category in admissions has also sparked controversy, as minority institutions are generally exempt from such provisions.
Badre Alam, Secretary of the Alumni Association of JMI (AAJMI), warned of possible legal action, citing violations of the university’s reservation policy. Lubaib Basheer, National General Secretary of the Fraternity Movement, accused the administration of manipulating policies to alter JMI’s demographic composition. The group also highlighted violations in PhD admissions, claiming that changes to reservation guidelines undermine the university’s autonomy.
Prominent leaders, including AIMPLB spokesperson Dr. SQR Ilyas and JIH’s Markazi Taleemi Board Secretary Syed Tanveer Ahmed, have condemned these actions, demanding immediate intervention. Advocate ZK Faizan called the policy changes “illegal,” while AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi linked the issue to the Modi government’s broader efforts to marginalize Muslims educationally and economically.
Students Islamic Organization of India (SIO) PR Secretary Thashreef KP also criticized the move, warning that it was another attempt to reduce Muslim representation in higher education.
The JMI administration has yet to provide a clear response, but critics insist that any effort to weaken the minority quota will be met with strong resistance, including legal action and protests.
