PES University Professor Suspended After Viral Video Shows Him Calling Student 'Terrorist'
A shocking incident at PES University in Bengaluru has led to the suspension of an adjunct faculty member after a video of him verbally abusing a student went viral on social media. The professor, identified as Muralidhar Deshpande, was caught on camera repeatedly calling a student from a minority community a "terrorist" during a classroom outburst.
Details of the Classroom Incident
The incident occurred on March 24 during a supply chain analytics class for BBA second-year students. According to multiple sources within the university, the professor lost his temper after a student either repeatedly sought permission to leave the classroom or due to general classroom noise—the exact trigger remains unclear.
In the viral video clip, the professor can be heard shouting at the student: "While the class is on, you come and disturb everyone. Sharm nahi aati tumko (aren't you ashamed)? Useless fellow, terrorist. Yes, I'll call you a 'terrorist'." Reports indicate he used the derogatory term 13 times during his tirade.
University Response and Investigation
The student reported the incident to the department chairperson immediately, who visited the classroom and questioned the professor about what had transpired. When the professor continued to behave inappropriately, the chairperson instructed him to leave midway through the lecture.
As the video gained traction online, PES University authorities took swift action by suspending Deshpande. University Chancellor Jawahar Doreswamy stated that they are verifying the authenticity of the video through their technical team, as all lectures are recorded. "This is unacceptable. The faculty holds a PhD. We don't want to suppress anything. We will take necessary action," Doreswamy emphasized.
The chancellor further explained that the university's disciplinary committee will examine all evidence before deciding on further action. He noted that while all faculty members receive training on classroom management, they are reviewing protocols for adjunct faculty specifically. "At times, there can be disciplinary issues and people can overreact," Doreswamy acknowledged.
Professor's Apology and Legal Proceedings
Following his suspension, Professor Deshpande issued a written apology stating he had "not upheld classroom decorum." In his apology, he clarified: "I would like to clarify that the word used was not directed at any [specific] student, but I understand and acknowledge that it was inappropriate."
Despite no formal complaint being filed by either the student or the university, Girinagar police have registered a suo motu criminal case against the professor. The case has been filed under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Section 299, which addresses deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious sentiments.
A senior police officer revealed that they approached college authorities and students, urging them to file a formal complaint to initiate legal action. However, "the university management told us to wait for a while," the officer stated. Police have confirmed that a notice will soon be issued to Professor Deshpande as part of their ongoing investigation.
Broader Implications and Context
This incident has raised significant questions about classroom conduct, faculty training, and institutional accountability in higher education. The university's response—combining immediate suspension with a thorough investigation—reflects the seriousness with which they are treating the matter.
The case continues to develop as both university authorities and law enforcement pursue their respective inquiries into what triggered this unprecedented classroom confrontation and how to prevent similar incidents in the future.
