OP Jindal Global University recently confronted a situation involving 'activist' Achin Vanaik, who made contentious remarks during a lecture on the Palestine issue. Vanaik claimed, “Hindutva is fundamentally and foundationally anti-Muslim”, a statement that stirred significant reaction from the university community.

Responding to the incident, the Registrar of OP Jindal Global University, Professor Dabiru Shridhar Patnaik, addressed a letter to Achin Vanik on 13th November. Patnaik expressed his disappointment over the remarks made by Vanik, emphasizing that they were not only unnecessary but also diverged from the lecture's intended subject. In his letter, Patnaik stated, “I deeply regret that some remarks you made in your lecture were gratuitous and unrelated to its subject. Our faculty acted in good faith and, out of great respect for you, invited you to address our students.”

The Registrar further pointed out the discrepancy in the lecture's content, noting the contrast between the discussion on Zionism and the added commentary on Hindutva. “For our students and faculty, it was informative to learn that Zionism is not anti-Muslim. But it was unnecessary and objectionable that you added that Hindutva is anti-Muslim,” Patnaik added in his letter.

This incident at OP Jindal Global University highlights the challenges academic institutions face in balancing freedom of speech with respect for diverse viewpoints. The university's response underscores its commitment to maintaining an educational environment where discourse is both relevant and respectful. As academic institutions continue to be platforms for discussing complex global issues, the need for thoughtful and inclusive dialogue becomes increasingly important. The university's decision to address the situation head-on reflects its dedication to upholding these values within its community.

In a continuation of the response to Achin Vanaik's controversial lecture at OP Jindal Global University, Registrar Professor Dabiru Shridhar Patnaik offered a critical analysis of Vanaik's comments on sensitive issues. He highlighted a particular aspect of the talk, noting, "Your remarks about the motivation of suicide bombers (and terrorists, intended to explain that they are more determined to die for their cause than to kill) came across as an expression of sympathy towards them instead of an unalloyed condemnation of the violence and death caused by them." This observation suggests that Vanaik's discussion might have unintentionally portrayed a lenient stance on terrorism, which could be misinterpreted as empathy rather than outright condemnation.

The Registrar further expressed concern about the impact of such statements from a respected scholar, stating, "Unfortunately, when a scholar as distinguished as you are fails in the responsibility to exercise prudence when speaking about sensitive subjects, our university is rendered vulnerable." This comment reflects the university's position on the importance of responsible and careful discourse, especially on contentious topics, by academicians and guest speakers.

Addressing Vanaik directly, Patnaik urged him to reflect on his words and their implications. "We cannot contest the charge that some of your remarks were irresponsible and influenced your audience to take positions about developments in India which are not comparable to developments in Palestine and Israel," he said. This part of the letter highlights the university's stance on the need for a clear distinction between different geopolitical contexts and the responsibility to avoid drawing inappropriate parallels that could mislead or inflame opinions.

Registrar's Appeal for Introspection Following Controversial Lecture at Jindal University

The Registrar of OP Jindal Global University, Professor Dabiru Shridhar Patnaik, concluded his letter addressing Achin Vanaik with an appeal for acknowledgment and introspection. Patnaik expressed, "I earnestly hope that you will acknowledge these observations, made in my capacity as the Registrar, are reasonable. They call for your regret for bringing upon our university charges of insensitivity and irresponsibility. Therefore, I look to you to introspect on the consequences of your remarks and join me in sincerely regretting what happened." This closing statement emphasizes the need for Vanaik to recognize the impact of his words and their repercussions on the university's reputation.

The Registrar's letter underscores the university's commitment to responsible discourse and the expectation that guest speakers uphold these standards, especially on sensitive and complex issues. By urging Vanaik to reflect on his lecture, Patnaik highlights the university's stance on maintaining an environment of sensitivity and thoughtfulness, avoiding statements that could be construed as insensitive or irresponsible.

Achin Vanaik's lecture on 1st November had included statements that sparked controversy. He claimed, “Zionism is not anti-Muslim, it is anti-Palestinian, but it is happy to piggyback on current Islamophobia. Hindutva is fundamentally and foundationally anti-Muslim”, and challenged the assertion that Hindus are the original inhabitants of India and Hinduism being among the oldest civilizations. Additionally, a clip from the lecture suggested that he referred to Israeli action against Hamas as terrorism, further intensifying the debate around his speech.

The lack of availability of the full video of the lecture adds a layer of complexity to the situation, as it limits the context within which Vanaik's statements can be fully understood and assessed. The Registrar's call for introspection and regret is thus a significant step in addressing the concerns raised by the lecture, seeking to uphold the university's values and reputation while navigating the challenges posed by academic freedom and controversial discourse.

In a separate development at OP Jindal Global University, the Vice Chancellor addressed concerns involving Professor Sameena Dalwai. Achin Vanaik's lecture, which included a statement that glorified suicide bombing as an effective tool for Islamic Jihadi terrorists, had already sparked controversy at the university.

In response to Professor Dalwai's conduct, which included objections to the Hindu religious slogan 'jai Shri Ram', discrimination against Hindu students, and invasion of student privacy, the Vice Chancellor took formal action. Professor Dalwai accepted the accusations leveled against her following a show-cause notice.

On 13th November, Vice-Chancellor Professor C Raj Kumar addressed Dalwai directly in his letter, stating, “You (Sameena Dalwai) have failed in exercising due diligence and acted irresponsibly and thereby failed the university in its promise to create a safe space for its students.” This statement reflects the university's commitment to maintaining an inclusive and respectful educational environment and its willingness to address actions that undermine this commitment.

The actions taken by the university's administration in both cases – the lecture by Achin Vanaik and the conduct of Professor Sameena Dalwai – demonstrate the institution's active role in upholding its standards and values. The university's response to these incidents highlights the importance it places on responsible discourse, respect for diverse viewpoints, and the creation of a safe and inclusive space for all students.

In the letter addressed to Professor Sameena Dalwai at OP Jindal Global University, Vice-Chancellor Professor C Raj Kumar communicated the university's decision and expectations following her actions. He noted, “We have noted that you have realized this mistake. We extend a letter of warning to you so that it shall not be repeated in future and that there will be no further condonation on our part to such acts.” This statement acknowledges Professor Dalwai's recognition of her mistake and serves as a formal warning against repeating such actions.

Furthermore, Professor Kumar emphasized the departure from the principles of respectful and constructive dialogue, adding, “You have departed from the ethics of constructive conversation…Our university is a democratic and inclusive space, and we pride in the fact that we have carefully nurtured this ecosystem. Your actions have clearly undermined this spirit.” This part of the letter underlines the importance the university places on maintaining a democratic and inclusive environment, suggesting that Professor Dalwai’s actions were in conflict with these values.

The communication from the Vice-Chancellor highlights the university's commitment to upholding the standards of academic and ethical conduct. It also reflects the institution's dedication to preserving a respectful and inclusive academic environment, where diverse perspectives can be shared constructively. This incident serves as a reminder of the responsibilities educators hold in shaping a positive and inclusive learning environment.

In a formal warning issued by the Vice Chancellor of OP Jindal Global University, Professor C Raj Kumar, a clear expectation was set for Professor Sameena Dalwai regarding her future conduct. He stated, “We issue a warning to you that you shall remain aware of the dialogical proprieties and engage in respectful intellectual conversations with peers and students, even with and those who have viewpoints diametrically opposite to yours. There shall be no repetition of the violations in question.” This statement emphasizes the importance of respectful and inclusive dialogue within the university, especially in interactions with those holding differing viewpoints.

The issue further escalated with an email written by Professor Dalwai to students who opposed Achin Vanik's lecture. In her email, Dalwai claimed that Hamas had not committed any atrocities against Israeli civilians, dismissing such reports as ‘fake news by Indian troll armies’. This assertion by Professor Dalwai adds another layer to the controversy, as it involves a sensitive and complex international issue.

The response from the university's administration in issuing a warning to Professor Dalwai underscores its commitment to maintaining a respectful academic environment where diverse opinions can be discussed constructively. The university's stance highlights the responsibility of educators and academic professionals to foster an atmosphere of tolerance and respect, ensuring that all discussions, even on contentious topics, are conducted with a commitment to intellectual rigor and ethical standards.

In her communication with students, Professor Sameena Dalwai of OP Jindal Global University expressed her personal experiences and restraint on campus. She mentioned, “Otherwise, I hear shouts of ‘Jai Sriram’ on campus, I see right-wing students and faculty doing their own events. I want to react, but I keep quiet in favour of peace.” This statement reflects her perception of the campus atmosphere and her own response to it, indicating a sense of conflict and her effort to maintain peace.

However, Dalwai's actions and statements have not only been limited to the realm of ideological disagreement. She has also faced scrutiny for allegedly violating student privacy. A complaint letter, reportedly accessed by The Organiser and submitted by students on 23rd September, accused Professor Dalwai of inappropriately accessing students' Bumble accounts during class. This allegation, if true, raises serious concerns about privacy and professional conduct within an academic setting.

The combination of Professor Dalwai's public stance on political matters and the alleged breach of student privacy has contributed to a complex situation at the university. The administration's response, including the warning issued by the Vice Chancellor, suggests a balancing act between maintaining academic freedom and upholding standards of conduct and respect within the university community. This incident highlights the challenges faced by educational institutions in navigating the complexities of personal beliefs, professional responsibilities, and the rights and privacy of students.