Background
On 13 March 2025, Osmania University, Hyderabad, issued a circular banning protests, sit-ins, agitations, and slogan-raising on campus, citing disruption to academics and security concerns. The notice warned that “serious action” would be taken against violators.

Student Response and Detentions

The ban provoked strong opposition. On 17 March, over 25 student unions staged a sit-in at the historic Arts College building, calling the order a direct attack on free speech. Police were pre-deployed, disrupted the demonstration, and detained student leaders including Nageshwar Rao, Jogili Dharshan, L. Nagaradu, G.D. Anil, Sumanth, Swathi, Naveen, Cheerala Venki, Venkatesh, Koteshwar Rao, Pratiek, Navya Sree, Anji, and others. They were released later from Osmania University Police Station.

Constitutional Framework

• Article 19(1)(a): Protects freedom of speech and expression, including the right to hold opinions, access information, and share ideas.
• Article 19(1)(b): Guarantees the right to peaceful assembly without arms.

Judicial Precedent

In Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan v. Union of India (2018), the Supreme Court held that protest is a fundamental democratic right, enabling citizens to dissent, demand accountability, and amplify the voices of marginalized groups.

Appeal:         

We urge the Hon’ble Commission to take cognisance of the above case and urgently:

•  To direct the   Director General of Investigation of the NHRC to initiate a transparent, independent inquiry into the detention of the HRDs and submit the report to the NHRC within Two Weeks.