Shobha Yatra: A controversy has erupted at the Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay (IIT-B) as the institute permits a series of events, including a ‘Shobha Yatra,’ a ‘Ramdhun’ musical event, and the inauguration of a ‘Gaushala’ (cow shelter), leading up to the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22. The move has faced criticism from a section of students who argue that these events are “politically aligned” and go against the institute’s guidelines, which strictly endorse only “apolitical” activities for students and faculty. The events have been approved despite an official denial by the institute’s spokesperson.
IIT-B’s Approval for Politically Sensitive Events Raises Concerns
An email from the institute’s administration announced a ‘Ramdhun’ musical event based on ‘Geet Ramayan,’ scheduled for January 20, featuring performances by the IIT-B community. Another email mentioned the inauguration of a gaushala on January 22, to be inaugurated by IIT-Bombay’s director, Subhasis Chaudhuri. Additionally, a banner on campus indicated a procession named ‘Shri Ram Durbar Shobha Yatra’ scheduled for January 21. The students’ collective has criticized the administration for contradicting its own guidelines issued on November 14, 2023, explicitly prohibiting any “political” events.
Students Express Dissent Over Perceived Political Alignments
Expressing discontent, students argue that the institute’s approval of events related to the Ram Temple consecration contradicts its commitment to maintaining an apolitical environment. The controversy underscores the challenge of balancing cultural and religious celebrations with the institute’s apolitical stance, leading to debates within the student community about the appropriateness of such events on the campus.
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