Campus Watch
Status: Student protest at WBNUJS is paused after ~20 hours. Classes have resumed; students say action will restart if demands aren’t addressed Developing
At a glance
- Core demand: Resignation of VC Prof. Nirmal Kanti Chakrabarti.
- Trigger: After the General Council didn’t act on the Student Juridical Association’s (SJA) request to remove the VC.
- Ultimatum: Either the VC resigns or a new VC is appointed by Oct 31, 2025 (as per students’ representation).
- Current campus stance: Protest paused; many students wearing black bands or standing silently during lectures.
Why the students are protesting
Context: The Supreme Court recently dismissed a PoSH complaint against the VC on limitation grounds, but directed that the judgment recording allegations be entered in his professional record. Students argue this harms the university’s reputation and perception in rankings.
- Reputation & safety: Students cite reputational damage and concerns about campus safety and trust.
- Governance & finance (allegations): The SJA flagged lack of transparency and a reported deficit; they’ve asked for clarity on spending and outcomes of research grants. (Allegations from the student body; administration has denied wrongdoing.)
Timeline (key points)
| When | What happened |
|---|---|
| Sat → Sun early morning | Students protested for ~20 hours; a meeting with the VC and senior faculty was held around 5:30 AM Sunday. |
| Post-meeting | Students submitted a list of 47 demands. The VC reportedly did not accept the resignation demand and left campus thereafter. |
| Sun–Mon | Physical protest paused; classes resumed with symbolic dissent (black bands, silent standing). |
| Next | Students want the Executive Council to act; GC had earlier discussed the issue without removal. |
The legal piece students keep pointing to
The Supreme Court’s order did not uphold the PoSH complaint on merits (it was time-barred), but still directed that the judgment be carried in the VC’s official record. Students say this undermines the university’s standing; the VC has called the demand for resignation “unjust.”
What to watch
- Whether the Executive Council meets and takes any action before Oct 31, 2025.
- Any official communication from the Chancellor/GC.
- Administrative response to the students’ 47-point list (finance, safety, transparency, grievance redressal).
Note: This report summarizes verified public updates and student/administration statements available as of the timestamp above. New official notices may change the picture.
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