Several teachers’ associations, including JNUTA, have condemned the suspension of four faculty members at the South Asian University, calling it arbitrary and an attempt to intimidate and silence them.
The suspended faculty members are allegedly involved in the 2022 protests against the university’s revision of monthly stipends for Master’s students. The decision to suspend them was taken on June 16 after allegations of misconduct and violation of the varsity’s code of conduct.
The teachers’ associations argue that the university’s actions are unfair and go against academic freedom. They are calling for the revocation of the suspensions and an end to the harassment of faculty members who express dissent or participate in protests.
This is not the first time that South Asian University has faced criticism over academic freedom. Last year, the university was accused of blocking students from accessing websites critical of the Indian government, prompting protests from students and teachers alike.
The latest move has sparked outrage from the academic community, with many expressing concern about the chilling effect it could have on campus discourse. Supporters of the suspended faculty members have taken to social media, calling for the revocation of the suspensions and an end to the climate of fear and intimidation that currently exists on campus.
The South Asian University, established by the eight SAARC countries in 2010, is meant to be a center of academic excellence and regional cooperation. However, recent events have raised questions about its commitment to these ideals, and whether it is truly a space where diverse voices can be heard and respected.
As the implications of the suspensions continue to reverberate across the academic world, it remains to be seen what steps the university will take to address the concerns of its faculty and ensure that academic freedom is upheld.
