TISS Students Stage Protest Against PhD Scholar Suspension and Police Intervention

Students at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) have accused the police of intervening during a protest held on campus. The demonstration coincided with the convocation ceremony and was in response to the suspension of PhD scholar Ramadas Prini Sivanandan. Additionally, students protested in support of 119 teachers and staff facing job losses by December 31, according to a statement signed by several students.

The protest was reportedly peaceful and did not disrupt other events. However, students claimed that the administration discouraged their free speech rights and invited numerous police officers into the hall. "We chose to raise banners in solidarity with Ramadas Prini Sivanandan, a Dalit PhD scholar and a student activist who is denied access to education for the last 156 days due to the arbitrary suspension, and 119 teachers and staff who may lose their jobs by December 31 or have already lost," the students stated.

Police Presence During Protest

Arghya Das, a graduating student from the MA in Women's Studies programme, was reportedly removed from the stage by security and police while protesting. He was holding a placard demanding the revocation of Sivanandan's suspension and job security for staff. Students alleged that Das was detained away from the Convocation Hall until the ceremony concluded, and all degree certificates were distributed.

In April, TISS suspended Sivanandan for two years, citing activities deemed against national interest. These included his participation in a protest in Delhi under the PSF-TISS banner. A Mumbai police official mentioned that an internal inquiry regarding Sivanandan's suspension is scheduled for Monday. The official noted that no formal complaint has been filed yet but confirmed that police are monitoring campus developments.

Solidarity with Affected Staff

The protest also highlighted concerns over potential job losses among TISS staff. Students expressed solidarity with 119 teachers and staff who might lose their jobs by year-end or have already been affected. The statement detailing these concerns was signed by Sara Bardhan, Sreyas Valsan, Ashique Ali, and Md. Yaseen KM, representing various academic programmes.

Despite assurances of peaceful intentions, students felt their right to free expression was stifled by administrative actions. They criticised the presence of police during their demonstration as an intimidation tactic. The incident has drawn attention to broader issues within the institution regarding academic freedom and employment security.

The unfolding situation at TISS reflects ongoing tensions between student activism and institutional policies. As students continue to voice their concerns, it remains to be seen how these issues will be addressed by both TISS administration and law enforcement authorities.