Why Did JNU Cancel Seminars with Diplomats from Iran, Palestine, and Lebanon?

Jawaharlal Nehru University’s Centre for West Asian Studies recently canceled three highly-anticipated seminars featuring diplomats from Iran, Palestine, and Lebanon, citing “unavoidable circumstances.”

Cancellations and What Happened

The seminars were meant to bring in the ambassadors of Iran, Palestine, and Lebanon to share their countries’ perspectives on the ongoing West Asian conflicts. Just hours before Dr. Iraj Elahi, the Iranian Ambassador, was set to speak about Iran’s views on current events in West Asia, students received a surprise email at 8:09 a.m. announcing the cancellation. Soon after, the November 7 seminar with Palestinian Ambassador Adnan Abu Al-Haija and the November 14 talk with Lebanese Ambassador Dr. Rabie Narsh were also canceled.

Why Were They Canceled?

The university did not give specific reasons for the cancellations. However, sources suggest that concerns over possible protests led to the decision. Faculty from the School of International Studies, under which these seminars were planned, reportedly worried about how students and staff might react to discussions on these sensitive issues.

A source shared, "These seminars aim to provide insights into West Asia’s perspectives during a tense time, but there were concerns about the campus’s reaction.”

What Faculty and University Leaders Had to Say

In an internal message, Amitabh Mattoo, Dean of the School of International Studies, urged faculty to consult him before planning similar events. He highlighted the importance of maintaining JNU’s academic freedom but stressed that external speakers should be invited carefully, given the global climate.

Sameena Hameed, head of the Centre for West Asian Studies, clarified that the seminar with the Iranian ambassador was postponed because it was scheduled too last minute, leaving no time to complete necessary protocols. She also shared that the other two seminars were not officially scheduled yet.

Hameed assured students that diplomats have had a long relationship with JNU, often sharing valuable insights with students and faculty—and that this tradition would continue.

Sources: Internet Sources & Twitter X 

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