The annual convocation at Jadavpur University (JU) was marked by tension this week as students staged a silent protest against what they described as discriminatory behavior by faculty members. The demonstration centered on an incident involving the inspection of a student’s hijab during a recent examination.

A Public Display of Dissent

The controversy unfolded during the formal certificate distribution ceremony. As they approached the Vice-Chancellor to receive their undergraduate degrees, two students displayed a poster that read, “There is no place for Islamophobia at Jadavpur University.”

The act was intended to draw immediate attention to an incident that allegedly occurred during an English semester exam on Monday. According to the protesting students, an invigilator instructed a third-year female student to assist in partially removing a classmate’s hijab. The faculty member reportedly sought to verify if the student was concealing wireless headphones beneath the headscarf.

Students Defend “Secular Values”

Speaking to the press on Wednesday evening, the protesters emphasized that their actions were a defense of the university’s reputation.

“We believe such conduct is unacceptable at a prestigious institution like JU, which prides itself on liberal and secular ideals,” one of the students stated. “We didn’t want to cause a disturbance, but we felt it was necessary to take a stand. That is why we chose to hold the poster while receiving our degrees.”

Faculty Denies Bias, Cites Academic Integrity

The university’s English department has strongly refuted the claims of religious bias. A faculty member, speaking on the condition of anonymity, explained that the measures were part of a broader crackdown on academic dishonesty.

“We deny any allegations of Islamophobia,” the teacher stated. “Security was tightened after several students were caught cheating. If a student’s behavior appeared suspicious, re-checking was mandatory. In fact, four students were caught using electronic devices last week, none of whom were from the minority community.”

The faculty member further warned that “targeting” educators in this manner would make it increasingly difficult for staff to maintain exam hall discipline and fulfill their professional duties.

Political and Administrative Response

The Students’ Federation of India (SFI), a major political force on campus, has distanced itself from this specific demonstration. While the SFI held its own protests during the convocation—focusing on campus security and the need for student union elections—leaders clarified that the poster protest was an independent decision by the individuals involved.

“We do not support actions that may hurt individual sentiments,” an SFI representative noted.

Jadavpur University authorities have confirmed they are aware of the situation. Following a formal letter of complaint submitted by the students to the Vice-Chancellor, the administration has reportedly initiated an internal review of the allegations.

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