Crisis on campus

The shift from intellectual debate to physical aggression raises a crucial question — have we abandoned the core values of discourse and dissent, replacing them with coercion and intimidation? This fundamental departure from rational activism raises an uncomfortable question: Have we failed as educators, mentors, and as a society in imparting the right values to our students?

- AMRITA BANERJEE The writer is Assistant Professor and Coordinator/ H.O.D., Department of Political Science, Bidhan Chandra College, Asansol

As an alumnus of Jadavpur University and currently an Assistant Professor at Bidhan Chandra College, Asansol, I find myself increasingly disturbed by the recent turmoil on campus. Once a symbol of intellectual rigor and progressive student activism, Jadavpur University now finds itself in the headlines for all the wrong reasons. What should have been a forum for constructive discourse — the convention of WEBCUPA attended by educators across West Bengal and the Honorable Education Minister, Bratya Basu — descended into violence, chaos, and outright anarchy. Professors were assaulted, vehicles vandalized, and even the state minister was injured.

The scene was harrowing — professors who had traveled from various institutions, including many from Paschim Bardhaman, Purba Bardhaman and many other districts found their vehicles targeted, with windshields shattered and their personal safety at risk. For years, they had heard of the increasing radicalization on campus, but to witness it firsthand, to be subjected to the very hostility they had read about, was a rude awakening. What impression does this leave on the academic community? What message does it send to those who once held Jadavpur in the highest regard?

The situation has since escalated, with students threatening an indefinite shutdown if their demands, including the withdrawal of legal cases, are not met by the administration. But amidst the battle cries, have we paused to reflect on the deeper crisis unfolding? Jadavpur University, once an Institution of Eminence, has lost that status, and no one seems to be asking why.