The Jadavpur University Constitution row has sparked intense debate in Kolkata’s academic and civic circles. On December 30, 2025, the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) issued a notice to the university’s acting registrar, demanding an action‑taken report within seven days. The directive followed a complaint by an undergraduate student of the international relations department, who alleged that a teacher dismissed the importance of the Constitution and B.R. Ambedkar.
2. The Allegations
- The student claimed that when she sought guidance on studying the Constitution, the teacher told her to “tear apart” the document and “throw it into the water.”
- She further alleged that the teacher questioned the relevance of Ambedkar’s constitutional debates during a WhatsApp call.
- The student accused the university of inaction, stating that her complaint was treated with “serious ignorance.”
3. Jadavpur University Constitution Row: University Response
- Vice‑Chancellor Chiranjib Bhattacharjee denied charges of inaction.
- He explained that December vacations reduced working days, delaying the departmental committee’s report.
- The VC assured that the complaint was being pursued seriously and that the university would explain its position to the commission.
4. NCSC’s Directive
- The NCSC warned that if the university failed to respond within the stipulated time, the acting registrar could be summoned for an in‑person hearing.
- The commission’s intervention underscores its mandate to protect the rights of Scheduled Castes and ensure accountability in institutions.
5. Governance Challenges
The controversy reflects:
- Accountability gaps in university grievance redressal.
- Sensitivity issues around constitutional values and Ambedkar’s legacy.
- Communication breakdowns between students and administration.
- Need for external oversight when internal mechanisms falter.
6. Government External Links for Assistance
- National Commission for Scheduled Castes: https://ncsc.nic.in
- Government of West Bengal: https://wb.gov.in
- University Grants Commission (UGC): https://ugc.ac.in
- Supreme Court of India: https://main.sci.gov.in
7. Historical Context of Ambedkar’s Legacy in Academia
- B.R. Ambedkar, architect of the Indian Constitution, remains a central figure in debates on democracy and social justice.
- His writings and speeches are part of curricula across Indian universities.
- Past controversies have arisen when faculty or institutions appeared to undermine his contributions.
- The JU case adds to this ongoing discourse on academic freedom versus constitutional respect.
8. Community Impact
- Students expressed concern about the dismissive attitude toward constitutional studies.
- Civil society groups highlighted the importance of safeguarding Ambedkar’s legacy.
- The incident reignited debates on caste, representation, and academic accountability in higher education.
9. Global Comparisons
Similar controversies worldwide:
- USA: Debates over teaching critical race theory in universities.
- UK: Disputes over colonial history in curricula.
- South Africa: Student protests demanding decolonisation of education.
Kolkata’s case mirrors these global struggles where academic freedom intersects with social justice and historical responsibility.
10. Governance Lessons
The JU controversy teaches:
- Grievance committees must act swiftly to maintain trust.
- External oversight ensures accountability when internal systems fail.
- Respect for constitutional values is non‑negotiable in academia.
- Dialogue platforms between students and faculty can prevent escalation.
11. Future Outlook – Academic Accountability in Bengal
India must move towards:
- Codified grievance redressal mechanisms in universities.
- Mandatory sensitisation programmes on constitutional values.
- Periodic audits of university governance by independent bodies.
- Integration of Ambedkar’s works into broader curricula to strengthen democratic ethos.
12. Conclusion
The Jadavpur University Constitution row is more than a campus controversy—it is a test of India’s commitment to constitutional values and academic accountability. As the NCSC seeks answers, the larger lesson is clear: universities must balance academic freedom with respect for foundational principles, ensuring that students feel heard and justice is delivered.
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