Jadavpur University V-C calls for check on wall graffiti, asks students to air views on social media
Jadavpur University's Vice-Chancellor has requested students to stop painting graffiti on campus walls, suggesting they use social media for expression instead. This follows political pressure regarding controversial slogans found on university property.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the ongoing tension between institutional efforts to maintain campus aesthetics and the tradition of student political activism in Indian universities.
Jadavpur University Vice-Chancellor Chiranjib Bhattacharya has called for restraint on wall writings on the campus , appealing to students to express their views on social media.
Mr. Bhattacharya said students and teachers should preserve the institution's long-standing tradition of free thought and expression, while keeping the campus clean and peaceful.
The V-C, in an open letter, said his suggestions were not aimed at curbing freedom of expression, but safeguarding the university's heritage and environment.
Mr. Bhattacharya’s comments come days after West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari directed that alleged anti-national slogans be removed from the Jadavpur University campus, prompting varsity authorities to whitewash controversial graffiti on walls. However, freshly painted graffiti have emerged again on campus walls.
"Jadavpur University has a long tradition of free thought and expression. We must preserve this heritage while ensuring that the campus remains clean, peaceful and aesthetically pleasing,” he said in the open letter.
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