Calcutta University Exams 2025: Kolkata witnessed a significant test of academic resolve on August 28, 2025, when Calcutta University (CU) successfully conducted its fourth-semester undergraduate and postgraduate examinations amid political demands to reschedule them. The day saw over 30,000 students writing their papers at 67 exam centres, across two slots—from 10 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM.
Despite calls for postponement due to the foundation day celebrations of the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP), the university went ahead with its planned schedule. The result: near-perfect attendance, with 96% in the morning session and 95% in the afternoon session—a figure rarely achieved in recent years.
Background on CU leadership: University of Calcutta – Official Website
University’s Stand Against Pressure
The decision to hold exams as scheduled was not without challenges. TMCP had urged CU authorities to defer the tests, citing possible disruptions from student rallies and road blockages due to their foundation day programme. However, interim Vice-Chancellor Santa Datta De and the Controller of Examinations, Jayanta Sinha, made it clear that academic schedules could not be compromised.
The administration argued that altering the calendar for political reasons would undermine institutional integrity and set a dangerous precedent. “Exams are the right of students, and we cannot allow anything to jeopardize their future,” said De, highlighting the university’s responsibility to protect students’ interests above all else.
Related context: National Education Policy 2020 – Ministry of Education (which stresses strict adherence to academic calendars).
Calcutta University Exams 2025: Students Show Determination
For many students, the day began early. With the possibility of traffic snarls due to political rallies, large numbers left home well before exam time to ensure punctuality. Their determination was evident as attendance remained consistently high, even in centers located near areas where TMCP processions were taking place.
Several students expressed relief that the university stood firm on its decision. “We had studied for months and were mentally prepared. A sudden postponement would have been unfair,” said a third-year BA student from South Kolkata.
About Burdwan University: The University of Burdwan – Official Site
Calcutta University Exams 2025: A Contrast in Approach
While Calcutta University maintained its schedule, some other institutions in Bengal chose flexibility. For instance, Burdwan University postponed internal exams to avoid clashes with the TMCP event. This difference in approach sparked discussions about how universities should balance academic priorities with political sensitivities.
CU’s stance, however, received appreciation from many quarters, including educationists, alumni, and even parents of students. “It was the right call. Politics can’t dictate academics. The attendance numbers prove that students themselves supported the move,” said a retired professor of political science.
History: University of Calcutta – About CU
Legacy: UGC – List of Central & State Universities
Legacy of a Historic Institution
Founded in 1857, Calcutta University is one of India’s oldest and most respected universities. With more than 150 affiliated colleges and thousands of enrolled students, it carries a legacy of producing Nobel laureates, national leaders, and global scholars.
The recent success in conducting exams smoothly reinforces CU’s reputation for resilience. Over the years, the university has faced numerous challenges—political, administrative, and social—but continues to adapt while prioritizing education.
History: University of Calcutta – About CU
Legacy: UGC – List of Central & State Universities
Academic Performance: A Positive Trend
Interestingly, the current batch of students writing these exams is the last under the six-semester Choice-Based Credit System (CBCS). Recent results showed a sharp improvement, with BA Honours pass rates jumping from 52.6% to 77.5% and BSc Honours from 77.5% to 80.9%.
Such improvement reflects a renewed focus on academic performance and suggests that CU’s decision to stick to a disciplined calendar is yielding results.
Ensuring Transparency and Safety
In the backdrop of recent controversies—including a criminal case at one of its affiliated colleges and allegations of irregularities in admission procedures—CU has been working to strengthen its examination system. There are ongoing discussions about outsourcing sensitive entrance tests like the Law Entrance Examination (CULET) to external agencies to ensure fairness and transparency.
This year’s exams were conducted under heightened vigilance, with extra police deployment near centers to ensure no disruptions occurred. Reports confirmed that all centers functioned smoothly, with no instances of malpractice or disturbance.
A Message of Autonomy
The smooth conduct of exams has wider implications beyond one academic cycle. It sends a message about the importance of institutional autonomy in India’s higher education landscape. By refusing to bow to political demands, Calcutta University asserted its independence—something education experts argue is essential for the credibility of academic institutions.
Looking Ahead
With the exams completed peacefully, focus will now shift to evaluation and the upcoming semesters. Students, meanwhile, expressed hope that the university will continue to prioritize academics over external pressure.
For many, August 28 wasn’t just another exam day—it was a demonstration of their university’s ability to safeguard education in an environment often marred by political interference.
Conclusion
The successful completion of Calcutta University’s exams on a politically sensitive day highlighted a rare alignment between students’ determination and the administration’s firm stance. It showed that when an institution remains committed to its academic principles, even political events cannot overshadow education.
The story of August 28, 2025, will likely be remembered as a turning point where CU reaffirmed its autonomy, students displayed resilience, and the broader message became clear: academic schedules must remain above political influence.
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