Posted by New Delhi: The Tata Institute of Social Science (TISS) has imposed a two-year suspension on a PhD student for “repetitive misconduct and anti-national activities.”
The student, identified as Ramadas KS, participated in a protest outside the Parliament under the PSF-TISS banner besides posting pamphlets on social media.
Ramadas called upon students to join screening of ‘Ram Ke Naam’
The institute has reportedly also taken objection to an incident in January this year when Ramadas reportedly called upon the students to join screening of the documentary ‘Raam Ke Naam’ on January 26. ‘Ram ke Naam’ is a national award-winning documentary by Anand Patwardhan.
This decision has sparked controversy, with the Progressive Students Forum (PSF) alleging a connection between the suspension and the student’s involvement in a protest march in Delhi against what they see as anti-student policies of the central government.
‘Ramadas suspended for violation if discipline code’
However, the institute administration has claimed that the suspension is a consequence of “serious violations of the discipline code designed for students.”
According to a TISS official, Ramadas has engaged in “unlawful” activities repeatedly. He said while students are expected to focus on their studies, a segment has been involved in political activities, damaging the institute’s brand and affecting its placement opportunities.
Ramadas reportedly received a showcause notice on March 7, and following his response and an investigation by a committee, the suspension was issued eariler this week on Thursday. Ramadas can file an appeal against the suspension within 30 days. People close to Ramadas said he is likely to seek legal advice on this issue before deciding the next step.
Who is Ramadas KS?
Ramadas is the former general secretary of PSF and a member of the Students’ Federation of India (SFI). He had bagged a national fellowship for the scheduled castes for excelling in the UGC-NET exam. The fellowship sum along with HRA (Rs 48,000/month) is likely to be discontinued following the suspension. Ramadas was doing a PhD in growth and evolution of plantation workers.