Over 300 researchers and academics have urged the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to intervene in the termination of South Asian University (SAU) professor Snehashish Bhattacharya. Scholars called his September dismissal “unjust and punitive.” They demanded SAARC instruct SAU to immediately revoke the termination and reinstate the associate professor of economics.
Professor Bhattacharya’s termination followed a two-year suspension and a show-cause notice. The university alleged he supported students during protests on campus. This dismissal has raised significant concerns about academic freedom and due process within the SAU institution.
SAARC Urged to Act
Academics and intellectuals addressed a letter to SAARC Secretary-General Md Golam Sarwar. The letter expressed deep concern over reported violations of academic freedom and due process at SAU. Signatories specifically urged the SAARC official to direct SAU to reverse Bhattacharya’s termination. They seek to protect academic freedom and uphold the university’s foundational ideals of collegiality, dialogue, and intellectual independence.
The scholars argued Professor Bhattacharya was penalized for raising “principled concerns.” These concerns related to the administration’s handling of peaceful student protests in 2022 . Students had demanded representation in gender sensitization and anti-harassment cells. They also sought a rollback of stipend cuts, impacting their financial support.
Dismissal Justification Questioned
Professor Bhattacharya consistently denied all charges leveled against him. He also refused to submit a letter of regret. Following this refusal, the administration terminated his employment. SAU justified the action as a response to “incitement against the University.” However, the scholars rejected this justification. They described it as a distortion of his professional record and commitment to academic integrity.
Legal Challenge and Accountability
Academics refuted SAU’s claim that it operates outside the jurisdiction of Indian courts. They highlighted that The South Asian University Act, which established SAU, was enacted by the Indian Parliament in 2008 . This act, they contend, confirms SAU’s legal accountability within India. Professor Bhattacharya has challenged SAU’s jurisdiction claim in the Delhi High Court. The next hearing for this case is scheduled for November 18 .
Researchers asserted SAU has deviated from its initial vision. They noted an “exodus of international faculty” and “repeated attempts to censor students and staff” at the university. Scholars emphasized that Bhattacharya’s consistent actions reflect SAU’s stated values. His dismissal, they argue, threatens an individual’s career and broader principles of academic freedom and collegiality.
Widespread Support and Future Demands
Professor Bhattacharya has received widespread support. Alumni, including 101 former students, have signed a letter of protest. Additionally, the central university teachers’ body publicly condemned SAU’s actions. They extended solidarity to the faculty member.
Beyond reinstatement, scholars have urged SAARC to guarantee “procedural fairness and due process” in resolving this matter. They also called for upholding academic freedom and the rights of faculty and students. These elements are deemed essential for SAU’s credibility as a SAARC institution dedicated to cooperation, dialogue, and regional excellence.