Jadavpur University Executive Council Stands with English Department Head Amid Hijab Controversy
In a significant development at Jadavpur University in Kolkata, the executive council (EC), which serves as the institution's highest decision-making body, convened on Tuesday and took a firm stance regarding Professor Saswati Halder, the head of the English department. The council resolved that Halder could resume her duties whenever she desired or upon the expiration of her leave, while also expressing solidarity with her for her commitment to performing her responsibilities.
Background of the Leave and Ongoing Probe
This decision comes after university authorities reportedly placed Halder on leave until the end of January. This action followed recommendations from a committee investigating the hijab controversy at the university, which suggested she be relieved of her duties pending the completion of the inquiry. The panel is expected to submit its final report on January 29, adding a timeline to the ongoing scrutiny.
Origins of the Dispute and University Response
The controversy initially erupted when Halder asked two undergraduate third-year students to remove their hijabs during an examination on December 22, citing suspicions of cheating. In response, two days later, students staged a protest at the convocation stage, displaying posters that read, "No space for Islamophobia in JU", highlighting the tensions on campus.
JU Vice-Chancellor Chiranjib Bhattacharjee clarified the situation, stating, "Halder has willingly taken a leave from January 7 to January 31. If she wishes to withdraw her leave after a certain period and rejoin her duties, she is always permitted to do so." He further noted that EC members had criticized the chairperson of the fact-finding committee for making statements to the media while the investigation was still in progress.
EC Meeting Dynamics and Broader Implications
An EC member revealed that the issue was not originally on the meeting agenda. However, after the ABUTA (All Bengal University Teachers' Association), JU Local Chapter, submitted a memorandum demanding Halder's reinstatement, the matter was formally tabled for discussion. During the session, EC members unanimously expressed their solidarity with Halder, reinforcing their support for her professional conduct.
Additionally, the council decided that the university's examination department must develop a standard operating procedure (SOP) for exam conduct and standards, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure clarity in academic protocols.
Reactions from the Teaching Community
Debabrata Bera, convenor of the ABUTA, JU Local Chapter, commented on the situation, saying, "The manner in which the English department head was sent on leave conveyed a negative message to the teaching fraternity." This sentiment underscores the broader concerns among educators regarding administrative decisions and their impact on academic freedom and morale.
