Calls for public inquiry into Jason Arday 'witchhunt'
Public figures and activists are calling for a public inquiry into the media coverage surrounding former Cambridge professor Jason Arday following his death. Supporters claim Arday was the victim of a 'vicious witchhunt' during a plagiarism controversy, prompting demands for press accountability.
Why it matters
The case raises significant ethical questions regarding the role of media in academic controversies and the impact of intense public scrutiny on individuals.
By Ruth Comerford Published 22 minutes ago Public figures and friends of Jason Arday have called for a public inquiry into media coverage surrounding the former Cambridge professor, after he was found dead on Friday.
Labour MP Diane Abbott and actress Jameela Jamil are among 30,000 signatories of a letter to the prime minister and culture secretary, which claims Arday's death followed "two weeks of relentless harassment".
The letter, issued by the campaign group Good Law Project - which had been representing Arday after he stood down from his Cambridge role amid a plagiarism row - said many of its signatories had privately warned media outlets about the intensity of their reporting.
Lord Simon Woolley, principal of Homerton College, Cambridge said Arday had been subjected to a "toxic, vicious witchhunt".
Analysis: Jason Arday's death will send shockwaves through a divided academia
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