Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu: Three Muslim students enrolled in the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at the Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development (RGNIYD) have alleged arbitrary suspension and rustication by the institute over slogans like “Free Palestine” and “Jai Bhim,” which the administration labeled as “anti-national.”, reported the Maktoob Media.
In a joint statement issued by students Aslam S, Sayeedh M A, and Nahal Ibnu Abullaise, they revealed that suspension orders were served on May 25, just one day before their final year examinations.
“We were accused of gross misconduct and defacing hostel property with ‘anti-national content’, though no direct evidence has been provided,” the students stated.
They denied any involvement in the alleged wall writings, asserting that phrases like “Free Palestine” and “Jai Bhim” do not constitute anti-national activity under Indian law.
“The disciplinary proceedings lacked transparency. Only selective hostel rooms were inspected, and no incriminating materials were found in ours. Items like a paint roller and disposable plate with colors, which were linked to our field action project, were wrongly interpreted as evidence,” they added.
The students were called for a disciplinary hearing on May 23, but claim they were denied a fair chance to defend themselves. “We were not shown any evidence or allowed cross-examination, and were given no proper representation,” they said.
On the evening of May 25, they received the rustication orders, effectively preventing them from appearing for their final semester exams scheduled for May 26 and 27.
Labeling them “anti-national” in official records is defamatory and harmful to their future prospects, the students said, stressing that there was no act of violence or disruption on their part.
The trio has now approached the court seeking an urgent stay or quashing of the disciplinary action and a provision to reappear for their final exams.
Safiya, President of the Fraternity Movement Chennai, condemned the institute’s move, calling it “arbitrary and targeted suppression” and demanding immediate revocation.
