Anti-Dalit Remark: SFI Demands JNU VC Resignation

New Delhi: The SFI Central Committee has demanded that Jawaharlal Nehru University Vice-Chancellor Shantishree Duliputhi Pandit, who made severe casteist and racial remarks, resign immediately.

In a press release, the SFI stated that at a time when students from marginalised communities are fighting for dignity and equal opportunities on campuses, it is shocking and unacceptable to hear such casteist statements from someone holding the highest position in a public university.

The controversial remarks were made in a podcast released on February 16, where the JNU VC, known to be sympathetic to Sangh Parivar ideologies, made anti-Dalit and racial statements. There exists a persistent argument here that an individual can never progress based on this reasoning. The VC used a perspective historically upheld by upper-caste groups, claiming that Dalits had brought this argument into the campus, calling it a “temporary intoxicant.” The VC’s statement has triggered strong student protests on campus.

The SFI pointed out that the VC’s remarks undermine constitutional values and the democratic nature of universities. A person in such a high position should not question equality but rather uphold it. The VC must apologise for the casteist comments. If the VC is unwilling to resign, the SFI demanded that the President remove them from office.