Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune recently cancelled a series of lectures that were intended to commemorate Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s birthday. Speakers Deepali Salve, Nazima Parveen, and Smita M. Patil are renowned scholars and anti-caste activists. Their lectures were a part of Muktiparv, an event that had been organized by the students after much effort over several months.
The event was cancelled within hours of the ABVP, a right-wing student organization, protesting and lodging a complaint with the police that the speakers belonged to “extreme left” politics.
Students were prompt to react. The IISER Student Council issued a statement condemning the institute’s move, terming it sudden and unjustified. In their view, Muktiparv was supposed to celebrate Ambedkar and provide room for debate on caste, equality, and resistance. “Why cancel an event that resists oppression?” a student questioned.
Various campus organizations such as Aroha, Kalpa, Literary Club, and Satrangi also joined in calling for transparency. They demand the administration to provide a clear-cut reason for why the decision was made and what type of complaints were lodged.
The institute released a statement claiming that the talks had proceeded as per due process, but “concerns” were raised, so they had to be cancelled. Meanwhile, they asserted that they were still committed to Ambedkar’s ideals.
Students were not satisfied. They reminded us that IISER Pune, along with other premier institutions, has a track record of Dalit and Adivasi underrepresentation. History of RTIs reveals lacunae in recruitment of SC/ST faculty and high attrition among marginalised students.
“This is not one incident,” a student replied. “This is about who speaks, whose thoughts are permitted, and who gets driven out.”
A second statement issued by students questioned ABVP straight out: “Who are you to tell us how we celebrate Ambedkar? We’re not going to remain silent. This battle is about dignity, and we will carry on.”
