The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) on Monday sought an additional report from the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, alleging that the report submitted by the institute on de-recognition of a students’ group was “incomplete,” even as its director appeared before it for a hearing over the controversy.
IIT-Madras had de-recognised the APSC (Ambedkar- Periyar Study Circle), a student group which was critical of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, last week. But they revoked their decision on Sunday, after the decision met with criticism from all quarters.
“Although I have got a report from the administration in writing, I have asked for clarifications on why there was knee-jerk reaction on the part of IIT-Madras on a simple letter asking for comments from the Ministry,” said NCSC chairman Pl Punia, after the hearing.
“It is an incomplete report. It does not mention why action was taken against APSC at the first place,” he said.
IIT-M Director Bhaskar Ramamurthi and, the Joint Secretary from the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of HRD Praveen Kumar were present in the meeting, which was convened a day after IIT-Madras revoked its de-recognition on the student group.
“In fact, the injustice done to APSC was undone, I welcome this,” said Punia, adding that IIT students have the right for intellectual exercise of criticising parties, government or policies. Punia said that the Commission has fixed a date for another hearing over the issue.
Ramamurthi said recognition of APSC has been restored but was tight-lipped about the hearing. “What I have told the (NCSC) Chairman is the property of the Commission. I cannot reveal (anything),” said Ramamurthi.