SUCC Condemns Mock Funeral Protest Against Sanskrit Varsity V-C

The Save University Campaign Committee (SUCC) has expressed strong disapproval of the protest method adopted by the Students' Federation of India (SFI) against the Vice-Chancellor (V-C) of Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit. The agitation took place while a Syndicate meeting was underway at the university.

In a statement, the committee said that instead of resorting to a democratic form of protest, SFI activists depicted a mock funeral of the V-C. The SUCC described this act as mental torture and character assassination of a member of the teaching community. The committee also drew attention to a similar incident reported at a college in Palakkad, where such methods were allegedly used during an agitation.

The SUCC, which claims to represent the interests of the university and academic community, said that protests must be conducted within the bounds of decency and democratic norms. It urged student organisations to refrain from personal attacks and actions that undermine the dignity of individuals in academic institutions.

The incident comes amid ongoing tensions at the university over administrative decisions and governance issues. While the right to protest is a fundamental democratic right, the manner in which protests are conducted must respect the principles of civility and lawful conduct, the committee noted.

Observers point out that such forms of protest, which target individuals personally, can create a toxic atmosphere in educational campuses. The SUCC's criticism highlights a growing concern among faculty and stakeholders regarding the erosion of respectful dialogue in student activism.

The university administration has not yet issued an official response to the SUCC's statement. However, sources indicate that the Syndicate meeting proceeded as scheduled, and discussions were held on routine academic and administrative matters.

This development raises broader questions about the limits of protest in academic settings. While students are entitled to express their grievances, the methods employed must not mimic violence or dehumanise individuals. The SUCC's stand serves as a reminder that dissent should be expressed through peaceful and constructive means.