The controversy intensified after slogans mentioning Kashmir, Sharjeel Imam, the RSS, and the BJP were seen on university walls before being removed. The demonstrations took a political turn after opposition members of Parliament, including Congress leader Imran Masood and Samajwadi Party leader Mohibullah Nadvi, were detained by Delhi Police while attempting to meet the protesting students at Gate Number Seven.

While opposition leaders questioned the suspension of students and demanded union polls, the BJP termed the graffiti an anti-national conspiracy.