Jamia Millia Islamia forms panel to probe alleged lizard in student food

Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) has established a four-member committee to investigate allegations of food contamination at a university school hostel. The probe follows reports that a lizard was found in a student’s bowl of pulses, an incident that triggered protests by hundreds of students outside the Vice-Chancellor’s office on September 12–13.

University officials stated that CCTV footage shows a hostel resident taking a bowl of pulses under a mess table, after which a group of students reportedly caused a commotion alleging the presence of the lizard. The committee is tasked with examining the footage to determine if the incident was a genuine occurrence or a deliberate attempt to cause disruption or bring disrepute to the university.

The administration expressed concern regarding the potential use of misinformation and social media videos to disturb the academic environment. JMI is seeking assistance from government investigating agencies to review the footage and has indicated that appropriate action will be taken if misconduct or fabrication is established.