Ambedkar university suspends student for ‘criticising’ v c’s republic day speech

Ambedkar university suspends student for ‘criticising’ v c’s republic day speech

A final-year MA student of Dr BR Ambedkar University Delhi has been suspended for allegedly criticising Vice-Chancellor Anu Singh Lather’s Republic Day speech this year.

The student, also an activist with the All India Students’ Association (AISA), has been suspended for six months (full winter semester) and barred from entering the campus during this period.

In an order by the Proctorial Board on Friday, the varsity cited “indiscipline” and use of “derogative and disrespectful language against the Head of the Institution” after the student’s email was shared on the official university mail facility in January this year.

The order also stated that the response by the student on the matter was found to be “non-apologetic” following an interaction with the board members at the end of February.

In a statement on Saturday, the AISA demanded an immediate revocation of the suspension. Calling it a violation of democratic and academic rights, it maintained that the V-C’s speech was “blatantly casteist and communal” in nature.

In her Republic Day speech at the varsity, the V-C had mentioned the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, stating that the issue is 525 years old and not a new issue. She applauded the state for the establishment of the temple (Ram Mandir) and called for Dr B R Ambedkar to be a national figure instead of being only for the Dalit community.

Following the uproar in the student community, the administration defended its action. In a statement on Saturday, it said, “The university’s Proctorial Board follows a consistent and impartial approach when addressing any instances of indiscipline, treating every student equally, regardless of background or circumstances.”

“… Every case is reviewed with due diligence, allowing for a fair assessment based on evidence and procedural integrity.” It added that the board’s decision is made “ensuring transparency and fairness”.

The AISA wing of the varsity said it will hold a protest outside the V-C office on Monday.

When contacted, Lather referred to the administration’s statement and said she stood by what she said in the speech.