IIT-Madras issue: Smriti, Rahul trade barbs

Not only Congress, even DMK and AAP have also <g data-gr-id="40">came</g> down heavily on the NDA government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“The de-reorganisation of Ambedkar-Periyar Study Circle (APSC) by IIT-Madras is as per the guidelines of the institute and  the HRD Ministry has nothing to do with this except for forwarding the complaint received to director of the institute for comments,” a senior HRD official said, adding, “The IIT-Madras has taken action as per its own procedure and institute’s guidelines. IITs being autonomous institutions are competent to handle matters within their guidelines and procedure.”

Clarifying the stand of IIT-Madras, a senior official of the institute said: “The Ambedkar-Periyar Study Circle has violated the guidelines while conducting their meeting. Normally, violation to these guidelines leads to temporary derecognition pending <g data-gr-id="38">their</g> presenting their stand to the Board of Students. In the present case also, the same procedure is being followed.”

“As per the guidelines in force, student bodies cannot use the name of IIT-Madras or its official entities in any capacity to publicise their activities or garner support without official permission,” said acting director Prof Ramamurthy.

On the other side, Gandhi and Irani engaged in a war of words after protests by NSUI workers outside the latter’s official residence over the derecognition of the student group by IIT-Madras.

“An IIT student group was banned for criticising the Modi government. What next? Free speech is our right. We will fight any attempt to crush dissent and debate,” Gandhi said on his Twitter account. 

Replying to him in a series of tweets, Irani said: “Next time fight ur (your) battles ur (your)self, don’t hide behind NSUI. N (And) by d (the) way I’m returning to Amethi soon. See you there.” Challenging Gandhi, she said: “Give me a time n (and) place n (and) I’m ready to debate everything re (regarding) governance, including education.”

AAP leader Ashutosh asked whether students from the Dalit community don’t have a right to express their views on the PM. 

Tamil Nadu’s former deputy Chief Minister and DMK treasurer MK Stalin too supported the students and tweeted: “Intolerance in IIT. Student study groups disbanded. This assault on freedom of expression should be condemned.”