Ashoka University responds to videos depicting students raising casteist slogans
PTC News Desk: Amidst controversy sparked by videos circulating on social media depicting students making casteist remarks, Ashoka University in Haryana's Sonipat issued a statement on Wednesday, asserting its commitment to ensuring peace and harmony on campus. The university expressed deep concern over the expression of hatred towards any individual or group.
One of the videos captured during a student demonstration has drawn widespread criticism on social media platforms. In the footage, students can be heard chanting slogans like "we need a caste census" and “Brahmin-Baniyawaad Murdabad”, as reported by news agency ANI.
This is very very shocking if true why is there so much caste hatred in @AshokaUniv ? Will @sbikh Pl take action to stop such hatred, if true? @dpradhanbjp Govt should look into why such hatred prevails? How can universities keep quiet? https://t.co/7hEGtcNfvv — Mohandas Pai (@TVMohandasPai) March 27, 2024
In its official statement, Ashoka University emphasised its commitment to freedom of expression and robust debate, while also stressing the importance of mutual respect. The university cited its "Guidelines on Protecting Freedom of Expression," emphasising that such freedom is not absolute and must be exercised with regard for the rights and sensitivities of others.
The statement read, "The university deplores expressions of hatred directed against any individual or group. Ashoka University's Guidelines on Protecting Freedom of Expression have clearly laid down that such freedom of expression is not unlimited and enjoins respect for the rights and sensibilities of others. This is essential to preserving the spirit of community at Ashoka."
Ashoka University attaches great value to freedom of expression and vigorous debate, but it also attaches great importance to mutual respect. The university deplores expressions of hatred directed against any individual or group.
Ashoka University's Guidelines on Protecting… — Ashoka University (@AshokaUniv) March 27, 2024
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Further, the university underscored its commitment to maintaining a peaceful and inclusive environment on campus, stating that any actions creating an intimidating or hostile atmosphere will be subject to disciplinary measures. The videos prompted a response from Mohandas Pai, the Chief Financial Officer of Infosys, who expressed shock over the content and urged action to address the issue. He called upon the government and university authorities to intervene and address the prevalence of caste-based hatred.
Meanwhile, students at Ashoka University have been advocating for the establishment of an Equal Opportunity Cell, led by the Social Justice Forum (SJF), a student body advocating for the rights of individuals from marginalised communities.
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(Inpus from agencies)
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