New Delhi: The People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) has strongly criticised Delhi University Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh for his remarks during a recent convocation speech, calling them regressive and defamatory. Singh allegedly accused certain teachers and students of being “anti-national” and obstructing India’s progress.
PUCL said the comments were an attack on academic freedom and an attempt to delegitimise dissent on campus. The organisation stated that branding students and faculty as disloyal undermines the university’s role as a space for dialogue and diverse ideas. It urged the Vice-Chancellor to uphold democratic values and protect institutional integrity instead of promoting division.
Civil rights activists and academics echoed PUCL’s concerns, warning that such statements from university heads encourage fear and conformity. They argued that the politicisation of educational spaces erodes critical thinking and discourages debate.
Observers say the controversy reflects a broader pattern of shrinking space for dissent in Indian universities. Faculty and student groups across campuses have increasingly faced pressure for expressing alternative viewpoints. PUCL has called for accountability and reaffirmed its demand that universities remain free from political interference.
The statement has reignited debate over the responsibility of educational leaders in preserving academic independence and nurturing a climate of mutual respect within India’s premier institutions.
