Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) took disciplinary action on December 23 . The university suspended a professor. This suspension stemmed from an examination question. The question focused on “atrocities against Muslim minorities.” JMI attributed the issue to negligence and carelessness. The institution further announced plans to file a police First Information Report (FIR) in connection with the incident.
Professor Virendra Balaji Shahare is the faculty member suspended. He serves in JMI’s Department of Social Work. Professor Shahare was also the designated paper setter. The paper was for the “Social problems in India” course. The controversial question was part of the BA (Hons) Social Work semester 1 examination paper.
The specific question posed to students was optional. It read: “Discuss the atrocities against Muslim Minorities in India giving suitable examples.” This wording generated significant concern. The university’s registrar office received several complaints regarding its inclusion.
University Action and Inquiry
The university’s registrar formally issued the suspension order. Professor Shahare’s suspension took immediate effect. It will remain in place pending a thorough inquiry. This investigation aims to examine all circumstances surrounding the question’s appearance in the exam. The inquiry will also assess Professor Shahare’s role as the paper setter.
Specific conditions apply during the suspension period. Professor Shahare’s official headquarters will be New Delhi. He is prohibited from leaving the headquarters. Such departure requires prior written permission. This approval must come from the Competent Authority within the university. These measures ensure his availability for the inquiry process.
Jamia Millia Islamia also confirmed an FIR filing. This legal step will be taken “as per rules.” An FIR formally registers a criminal complaint with the police. This action indicates the university views the matter with serious concern. It also opens avenues for external investigation into the incident.
External Reaction and Concerns
The incident drew attention from government officials. Kanchan Gupta, a senior advisor, commented on the matter. He works with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Gupta shared his views publicly on the platform X.
Gupta characterized the exam question as “extremely provocative.” He also labeled it “communally polarising.” These descriptions highlight the potential for the question to cause division. Gupta explicitly suggested “malicious intent” behind its formulation. This implied deliberate wrongdoing, rather than simple oversight.
He further underscored Jamia Millia Islamia’s institutional identity. JMI operates as a Central University. It serves a diverse student community. This includes students from various backgrounds. Gupta suggested such a question was particularly inappropriate for an institution with a mixed student demographic. It could potentially disrupt the university’s inclusive environment.
Ongoing Review and Future Steps
The university’s decision represents a firm response. It addresses the controversy surrounding the examination content. The ongoing inquiry will gather facts. It will also review the actions of all involved parties. The FIR’s filing initiates a separate, legal process.
This incident highlights academic responsibility. It also underlines the need for careful question setting. Universities must ensure questions align with educational objectives. They must also avoid language deemed provocative or biased. The university administration continues its active review of the situation. Further disciplinary or legal actions may follow the completion of the inquiry and FIR process.