The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) Students’ Union (JNUSU) demanded the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Shantishree Dhulipudi Pandit. The demand followed remarks she made in a podcast released on February 16. JNUSU described the statements as “blatantly casteist.”
In a statement, the student union expressed shock. They alleged the VC’s comments showed “caste supremacy.” The union also cited insensitivity towards marginalized communities. JNUSU stated these remarks reflect systemic exclusion in universities.
VC’s Podcast Remarks Spark Controversy
During the podcast, JNUSU claims the VC expressed pride in her affiliation with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). “I am proud of my affiliations with Rashtriya Sevika Samiti,” she reportedly said. She added that the RSS “gave me a worldview which is universal and unique.”
JNUSU called these remarks “abhorrent” and “casteist.” They also quoted the VC on UGC regulations. “UGC regulations are unnecessary and irrational,” she stated. The union highlighted another comment regarding victimhood.
“You cannot progress by being permanently a victim or playing the victim card,” the VC reportedly said. She compared this to the situation of Black people and Dalits. “By making somebody a devil, it is not easy to progress. It is a temporary type of drug,” she was quoted as saying.
JNUSU questioned this worldview. “Is this the worldview that she was taught at RSS camps?” the statement read. The union framed this as part of a “chronology of injustice, caste supremacy, and perpetual systemic exclusion.”
Calls for Protest and Resignation
The JNU Students’ Union has organized a national protest day. The protest is scheduled for February 21. The primary demand is the Vice-Chancellor’s resignation.
This controversy emerges amid existing tensions. The JNU Teachers’ Association (JNUTA) has also had disputes with the Vice-Chancellor. JNUTA has previously written to President Droupadi Murmu. The letters sought the VC’s removal. Allegations included administrative irregularities. Faculty promotion delays were also cited.