The uproar that had erupted in Telangana’s prestigious National Institute of Technology (NIT) Warangal over religious bias and alleged misbehavior with students, calmed down today by taking a positive turn. Director of the institute, Dr. Bidyadhar Subudhi, participated in the recitation of Hanuman Chalisa organized in the campus today and rejected all the allegations made by Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP). He not only participated in the program but also openly appreciated the initiative of the students, making it clear that the administration is not biased towards any religion.
On Tuesday, VHP’s national spokesperson Dr. Ravinootala Shashidhar had made serious allegations against the director of the institute. He had claimed that separate rooms are provided for Namaz on the campus and facilities are provided to Christian organisations, but the recitation of only 15 minutes of Hanuman Chalisa is being stopped. The spokesperson had also alleged that the phones of the students have been confiscated and they are being threatened with expulsion from the institute, for which he also demanded the immediate dismissal of the director. After this statement, there was a lot of anger on social media and in the student community and the administration was accused of double standards.
Hanuman Chalisa program concluded
However, when the Hanuman Chalisa program concluded today, the situation completely changed. Director Dr. Subudhi countered the allegations not with rhetoric but with his presence. He sat among the students during the program and participated in the lesson along with them. At the end of the program he appreciated the enthusiasm and faith of the students. This step proved that the allegations made recently had no merit and the administration treats all religions with equal respect. The students also welcomed this stance of the director and an atmosphere of harmony prevailed in the campus.
Controversy over religious activities in educational institutions
Controversies often arise in educational institutions regarding religious activities, especially when incomplete information goes viral on social media. This incident has once again underlined the importance of communication. This decision of the Director of NIT Warangal has not only reduced the tension but has also bridged the gap between the students and the administration. This incident also puts to rest all those rumors in which it was said that the administration is adopting a tough stance towards a particular community. At present, there is peace in the campus and teaching work is going on at its own pace.
