Last Updated Feb - 21 - 2026, 02:04 PM | Source : Fela News | Visitors : 4
Students demand resignation after Vice Chancellor remarks on caste spark campus controversy.
A controversy has erupted at Jawaharlal Nehru University after students demanded the resignation of Vice Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit over remarks made during a podcast discussion on UGC rules. The comments, which reportedly referred to the idea of “permanent victimhood” in relation to certain social groups, triggered strong reactions across campus.
Student leaders described the remarks as insensitive and inappropriate, arguing that they undermined struggles faced by historically marginalised communities. The students’ union issued a statement condemning what it called casteist observations and announced plans for protest actions. Demonstrations were organised to express dissatisfaction and to seek accountability from the university administration.
In response, the Vice Chancellor stated that her remarks were taken out of context. She maintained that there was no intention to hurt anyone and clarified that she herself comes from a Bahujan background. According to her, the discussion was about broader academic and policy issues rather than targeting any specific group.
The incident has opened a wider debate within the university about caste, equality and academic freedom. Faculty members and student groups have engaged in discussions about how sensitive topics should be addressed in public forums. Some believe that leaders of academic institutions must exercise extra caution while speaking on social issues. Others argue that open debate is essential in universities, even when opinions differ.
As protests continue, the administration is under pressure to handle the situation carefully. The episode reflects ongoing tensions in higher education spaces where social justice, policy reforms and freedom of expression often intersect in complicated ways.
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