Jadavpur University Hijab Probe Panel Moves Forward with Investigation
The five-member fact-finding committee established by Jadavpur University to investigate the recent hijab controversy made significant progress on Monday. The panel actively recorded statements from three teachers, two research scholars, and two students during its latest session.
Key Developments in the Investigation
One of the two UG-3 students who missed the committee's first meeting finally appeared before the panel. Another UG-3 student had already provided her statement during the initial meeting held on January 5. The committee now expects to submit its comprehensive final report by January 29.
A committee member revealed an important recommendation from the panel. The fact-finding group suggested that one professor, who serves as the state government nominee to the Executive Council, should not participate in EC discussions concerning this matter. The committee based this recommendation on two clear findings. First, the professor was directly involved in the incident under investigation. Second, the professor demonstrated inappropriate behavior before the committee itself.
Dissent and Clarifications Emerge
Executive Council member Kazi Masum Akhtar expressed disagreement with the recommendation to bar the professor from discussions. Akhtar presented a different perspective, stating that the UG-3 student explicitly told the committee she faced no pressure to remove her hijab. According to Akhtar's account, the student actually received extra time during the incident.
Committee chairperson Syed Tanveer Nasreen provided additional context about Monday's proceedings. Nasreen explained that the teachers, scholars, and students appeared before the panel at the specific request of the English Department Head. The chairperson expressed confidence in the investigation's progress, stating, "We now have an almost clear picture of what unfolded during the incident." Nasreen confirmed the committee will carefully review all depositions before submitting final recommendations to the Vice-Chancellor.
The university community awaits the committee's findings with keen interest. This investigation represents a crucial step in addressing campus concerns while maintaining academic integrity and religious freedom principles.
