Over the past week, we have been deeply concerned by the escalation surrounding the ongoing student protests in India, and by reports and footage showing violence against students and peaceful demonstrators.
Many students, staff and alumni within the Queen Mary community have close personal, family and cultural ties to India. For many members of our community, seeing young people protesting about issues that directly affect their education, opportunities and future, and then witnessing scenes of violence and confrontation, can be deeply distressing.
We strongly condemn the use of excessive or disproportionate force against peaceful student protesters. Students and young people should be able to express their concerns, peacefully assemble and call for accountability without fear of violence or intimidation. The treatment of protesters in India has raised serious concerns around accountability, proportionality and the protection of the right to peaceful protest.
We recognise that there are different views surrounding the protests and the wider political issues involved. As elected student representatives, our position is not about supporting any political party, organisation or political agenda. Our concern is with the welfare of students, the right to peaceful democratic participation and the basic principle that those in positions of authority should remain accountable to the people they serve.
We stand in solidarity with students and young people who are peacefully asking for their voices to be heard, including those who have taken part in hunger strikes in support of greater accountability. Regardless of political disagreement, no student should feel that putting their health at risk is the only way to have their concerns taken seriously.
We also believe that concerns and allegations surrounding violence against protesters should be taken seriously and reviewed through appropriate and transparent processes. Accountability should apply to everyone involved, while peaceful dialogue should remain the priority.
For members of our Queen Mary community, events like these can feel deeply personal even when they are happening thousands of miles away. They can lead to feelings of anxiety, anger, grief, helplessness or distraction, and can have a genuine impact on wellbeing, academic work and everyday life.
During this period, we encourage everyone to take care of their wellbeing and to approach information thoughtfully. Please rely on trusted and verified news sources, remain mindful of misinformation circulating online and engage respectfully with one another. People may be processing these events differently depending on their own experiences, families and backgrounds, and compassion towards one another is particularly important at this time.
If you have friends or peers who may be affected, please consider checking in with them. Small acts of care and solidarity can make a meaningful difference.
As your elected student representatives, we will continue to raise concerns affecting our students through our conversations within the Students' Union and the University and will continue to ensure that student wellbeing remains a priority.
Extenuating Circumstances
If events in India are directly affecting you, your family or your ability to prepare for assessments or engage with your studies, you may wish to consider applying for Extenuating Circumstances through your academic school.
Further information is available through Queen Mary’s guidance on Extenuating Circumstances and other forms of student support.
The Students’ Union can also provide independent support through the Academic Advice Service.
Advice and Support
QMUL Advice and Counselling Service
24 hour Wellbeing Line: 0800 028 3766
QMSU Wellbeing
Your Head of Year or Academic Adviser
A trusted friend, peer or family member
Your Executive Officers - Samarth (Statement Lead), Diya, Eshwinder, Hassam, Tushar
Maria, VP Barts and The London, was on annual leave when the statement was put together