Is There a Political Agenda Behind Calcutta University Exams on Foundation Day?
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Synopsis
The TMCP has raised concerns over the University of Calcutta's decision to hold exams on a significant student celebration day, alleging political interference. This controversy highlights the intersection of education and politics in West Bengal and raises questions about student rights and university autonomy.
Key Takeaways
- TMCP alleges political interference in university exam scheduling.
- Concerns for student rights are at the forefront of the controversy.
- University maintains autonomy and counters allegations of conspiracy.
- Political parties are responsive to student movements and sentiments.
- Importance of timely communication between universities and student bodies.
Kolkata, July 26 (NationPress) The student wing of the Trinamool Congress, Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP), criticized the University of Calcutta's choice to conduct undergraduate exams on July 28, coinciding with the students' celebration of their foundation day.
Despite the University of Calcutta being a state-run institution, the leadership of the Trinamool Congress has attributed the situation to the Union government's influence, asserting that it has no role in the university's daily operations.
In a post on social media, TMCP state president Trinankur Bhattacharjee claimed that a plot was devised to prevent students from engaging in their foundation day activities, supposedly at the direction of the central government.
On that day, West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee is scheduled to address the student leaders during the foundation day event at Mayo Road.
Bhattacharjee stated, "A significant conspiracy has been organized to obstruct today's youth and student community inspired by the principles of Mamata Banerjee and supportive of Abhishek Banerjee's leadership."
He continued, "On August 28, the foundation day of Trinamool Chhatra Parishad, the University has unexpectedly scheduled exams for B.Com Semester 4 and B.A.LLB Semester 4 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. — this is not just a typical academic decision. It clearly indicates a political maneuver to hinder students' democratic rights under the influence of Delhi."
The student organization of the ruling party also sent a letter to the interim vice-chancellor of Calcutta University, expressing strong disapproval of the exam schedule.
"We request prompt and fair intervention from your office to ensure that the exam date is adjusted, so students are not compelled to choose between two important commitments. We look forward to your swift and just response," the letter stated.
The TMCP leader emphasized that this decision creates significant challenges not just for TMCP supporters but for all students, as they would struggle to travel due to large crowds. He accused the interim vice-chancellor of making this decision for her political gain, labeling it as extremely unfortunate, anti-democratic, and worthy of condemnation.
In response, the interim vice-chancellor of the University of Calcutta, Shanta Dutta, refuted the TMCP's claims, stating that examination dates are typically announced in advance.
"The university does not schedule exams solely on public holidays. It is impractical to consider every political event's dates. Thus, this accusation is entirely unfounded," the vice-chancellor remarked.
The Students' Federation of India (SFI), the student wing of CPI-M, criticized the TMCP for their hypocrisy regarding political event organization.
"Trinamool Congress hosted its Martyrs' Day rally on a Monday, leading to several schools canceling exams and declaring a holiday. Did TMCP voice any objection to their party's decision? They act as if colleges and universities are their personal property, dictating when exams should occur. This overreach by TMCP must end—it's nothing short of hypocrisy," stated SFI's West Bengal state president, Debanjan Dey.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the complex interplay between education and politics in India. The allegations made by TMCP highlight concerns about students' democratic rights and the autonomy of educational institutions. As reporters, we must remain vigilant in observing how these dynamics unfold, ensuring that the voices of students are heard while also critically examining the motivations behind political claims.
NationPress
09/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the TMCP upset with the exam schedule?
The TMCP is concerned that the University of Calcutta scheduled undergraduate exams on the same day as the students' foundation day, which they believe is a political strategy to hinder their celebrations.
What did the interim vice-chancellor say about the allegations?
The interim vice-chancellor, Shanta Dutta, dismissed the TMCP's allegations, stating that exam dates are announced well in advance and that the university cannot accommodate all political events.
How is this situation affecting students?
Students are facing significant challenges as large gatherings for the foundation day may hinder their ability to commute and participate in both events.
What response did TMCP seek from the university?
TMCP requested that the university reschedule the exam date to avoid forcing students to choose between their academic commitments and participating in celebrations.
How did the SFI respond to the TMCP's complaints?
The SFI criticized the TMCP for hypocrisy, pointing out that they did not object to their own party's scheduling of political events that affected schools and exams.
