Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Mar 27: The Calcutta High Court on Thursday prohibited Jadavpur University from inviting any political personality to campus events or seminars, directing that only academic-related programs be held within the university.

The ruling was issued by a division bench comprising Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam and Justice Chaitali Chattopadhyay, following a public interest litigation (PIL) that raised concerns over the lack of security on the university campus. The court also instructed university authorities to submit a detailed affidavit within three weeks outlining the existing security arrangements.

The decision follows violent protests earlier this month, when West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu faced opposition from students demanding immediate students’ council elections. On March 1, chaos erupted when students blocked Basu’s car, leading to an altercation. Protesters claimed that the minister’s vehicle intentionally hit two students, leaving them severely injured and requiring hospitalization.

In the wake of these incidents, the High Court questioned why Jadavpur University hesitated to seek police intervention despite recurring unrest. The judges demanded that the university provide a clear explanation in the next hearing.

The court’s order aims to prevent further political disturbances on campus and reinforce the university’s academic integrity. Authorities have been warned to strictly comply with these guidelines, ensuring that the campus remains free from political influence and focused solely on education.