Kolkata: Jadavpur University (JU) on Monday withdrew the poster of Kreeda Bharati, a sports organisation founded by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), from its official website following widespread protests and objections from teachers, students and alumni. The poster had been promoting an event scheduled at Red Road on the occasion of International Yoga Day, which falls on June 21.
Background of the Controversy
The decision to remove the poster came after a significant number of faculty members and students expressed strong opposition to its presence on the university’s website. An official from the university stated, “The majority of teachers and students expressed objection to the poster on the official website. So the vice-chancellor verbally told one of the staff to withdraw the poster on Monday.” This move was seen as a response to the growing discontent within the academic community.
Reactions from Teachers and Student Groups
Goutam Maity, a representative of the ABUTA (All Bengal University Teachers’ Association) local chapter at JU, elaborated on the reasons behind the demand for withdrawal. He said, “We had demanded withdrawal of the poster because promotion of an event by an ideologically identified external organisation unrelated to the university is inconsistent with the university’s autonomous and secular character.” This sentiment was echoed by many who believe that the university should maintain its neutrality and avoid endorsing organizations with specific ideological affiliations.
Rajyeswar Sinha, assistant general secretary of the Jadavpur University Teachers’ Association (JUTA), also welcomed the decision. He remarked, “Removing the poster is desirable and is a wise decision.” The removal has been largely seen as a step to uphold the secular and autonomous principles of the institution.
Broader Implications
The incident highlights the ongoing sensitivity around the involvement of RSS-affiliated organizations in educational institutions. Jadavpur University, known for its left-leaning and progressive stance, has often been at the center of such debates. The withdrawal of the poster is likely to set a precedent for how similar situations may be handled in the future, reinforcing the university's commitment to maintaining an environment free from external ideological influences.
As the university moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring that all activities on campus align with its core values of academic freedom and secularism. The event at Red Road, while still taking place, will no longer be promoted through the university’s official channels.
