A major controversy has erupted at Kolkata's prestigious Jadavpur University after a student organisation drew graffiti honouring a slain top Maoist leader. The incident has triggered a sharp political confrontation on campus, with the university's ruling Trinamool Congress-affiliated student wing demanding an immediate ban on the group responsible.
Demand for Ban and University Halls
The Jadavpur University Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (JUTMCP) has formally called for a ban on the Revolutionary Students' Front (RSF). This demand comes directly in response to the RSF creating graffiti depicting Basavraju, a senior leader of the banned CPI (Maoist) who was killed recently in an encounter in Chhattisgarh.
Tirtharaj Bardhan, the General Secretary of JUTMCP, stated unequivocally that the RSF should not be permitted to use any university halls for events. He accused the group of promoting activities that go against the constitution within the academic environment. "They are promoting anti-constitutional activities in academic space," Bardhan asserted, highlighting the seriousness of the allegation.
University Administration's Cautious Stance
When approached for comment on the escalating situation, the university's Vice-Chancellor, Chiranjib Bhattacharjee, adopted a more measured tone. He indicated that the institution would follow legal protocols rather than take immediate unilateral action.
"The law of the land will decide the action. We can give a warning to the organisation," VC Bhattacharjee stated. This response suggests the administration is treading carefully, aware of the sensitive nature of the issue and the potential for it to spark wider debates on campus freedom versus legal boundaries.
RSF's Justification and Tribute to 'Martyrs'
Defending their actions, the Revolutionary Students' Front stood firm on their ideological position. Tathagata Roy Chowdhury, the General Secretary of RSF, explained that the graffiti was an act of tribute.
He described Basavraju and another Maoist leader named Hidma as "martyrs of the revolutionary communist movement." Roy Chowdhury justified the homage by stating they were fighting for "jal, jungle and zameen" (water, forest, and land), a slogan often associated with tribal rights and resistance movements in central and eastern India.
Broader Implications for Campus Politics
This incident is not an isolated one but reflects the ongoing ideological tussles that occasionally surface in Indian university spaces, particularly in institutions with a history of strong student political activism. The demand for a ban pits concerns over national security and constitutional compliance against arguments of political expression and the right to dissent.
The university administration's next steps will be closely watched. A decision to ban the RSF could lead to accusations of stifling voices, while inaction could draw criticism for being soft on groups allegedly glorifying banned extremist organisations. The situation puts the spotlight squarely on Jadavpur University's governance and its handling of politically charged campus activism.
