Controversy Erupts at Jadavpur University Over Religious Ritual Amidst Administrative Protests

A recent yagna held by the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh at Jadavpur University has stirred controversy, with opposition from a teachers' association concerned about religious events on campus. The ritual, intended to protest administrative irregularities, has raised questions about the appropriateness of such activities in academic settings. While supporters argue for the right to hold rituals, critics warn of potential conflicts with other groups seeking similar permissions. The situation highlights ongoing issues within the university, including funding shortages and deteriorating infrastructure. Read on to explore the full story behind this unfolding debate.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 8, 2026, 14:46 IST

Religious Ritual Sparks Debate at Jadavpur University

Kolkata: A recent 'yagna' held on the Jadavpur University campus by the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), which is linked to the RSS, has ignited controversy. A teachers' association has voiced its opposition to religious events on campus, fearing it may lead to similar actions by other groups.

The 'yagna' took place on Friday in front of Aurobindo Bhavan, the university's administrative building, as part of a protest against alleged administrative misconduct.

BMS claims that the registrar and finance officer of the university have overstayed their tenures and surpassed the age limit of 60, thus hindering job opportunities for younger candidates.

The organization stated that the ritual aimed to pray for the university's overall progress and to inspire better judgment among the administration.

Additionally, the organizers asserted that the ceremony was meant to symbolically eliminate negative influences surrounding the university's leadership.

However, Selim Box Mondal, the officiating registrar, raised concerns about conducting a fire ritual near a historic building without prior authorization and reported the incident to the vice chancellor, according to university sources.

Some students also expressed their disapproval of the event. A group of engineering students indicated they would file a formal complaint with Vice Chancellor Chiranjib Bhattacharya, questioning the appropriateness of holding a 'yagna' near a heritage site without permission.

In defense, the organizers argued that there is no issue with performing a ritual for the university's benefit, suggesting that if rallies and meetings can occur without damage, then a 'yagna' should not be contested.

The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) supported the organizers, citing previous instances of 'Azadi' slogans being raised by Left student factions on campus. They claimed the 'yagna' was also a means to purify the campus from such activities.

The Jadavpur University Teachers' Association (JUTA) issued a strong statement against the 'yagna', labeling it an unprecedented event on campus.

JUTA noted that while the campus has hosted events like Saraswati Puja, Vishwakarma Puja, and Iftaar gatherings, a ritual specifically for religious prayer is fundamentally different and could lead to competing demands for religious events from various groups.

The teachers' association questioned whether the university administration would be able to refuse permission to other religious organizations if such activities were permitted.

JUTA emphasized that this controversy distracts from critical issues facing the university, such as funding shortages for research, deteriorating infrastructure, and insufficient resources for repairs.

The association urged all members of the university community to avoid organizing such activities in academic spaces while classes are ongoing.