Tensions flared at Aliah University’s Park Circus campus on Wednesday as a group of students staged a walkout during a speech by CPIM State Secretary Mohammed Salim. The veteran leader, who was a keynote speaker at a seminar on social justice, reportedly left the venue before the scheduled Q&A session after being visibly frustrated by the boycott.
Disruptions During Democratic Discussion
The event, titled “Democratic Discussion on Social Equality and Minority Rights,” featured high-profile speakers including Salim and ISF MLA Naushad Siddiqui. However, the atmosphere soured as soon as the CPIM leader took the stage. As Salim began his address, a significant section of the student body rose from their seats and exited the auditorium in a coordinated protest.
Clearly irked by the mass departure, Salim’s opening remarks on stage were sharp: “It would have been better if you had arrived later,” he remarked, addressing those remaining while acknowledging the disruption.
Criticism of Political Intolerance
Following the incident, Salim spoke to the media outside the campus, taking a jab at the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). He claimed that while the “muscle power” of opponents had diminished, their democratic values remained absent.
“Their strength has waned slightly,” Salim stated. “Previously, they wouldn’t allow anyone except TMC members to speak. At least today we were able to deliver our speech, even if they don’t believe in the spirit of democracy.”
Focus on Policy, Not Polls
When questioned whether his visit was a pre-election move to court minority voters, Salim dismissed the allegations. He clarified that his discussion remained strictly academic and policy-oriented.
“I didn’t discuss anything related to the elections here,” he told reporters. “The conversation was centered on critical issues including OBC reservations, Waqf properties, the Special Identification Records (SIR) exercise, and the future of Aliah University itself.”
The university administration has not yet released an official statement regarding the student boycott.