We condemn the unconstitutional attempt to rusticate Kotesh, a PhD scholar of EFLU

Samvad condemns the undemocratic and unprocedural decision of the university administration to rusticate Mr. Kotesh, a PhD scholar in this university. The university authorities claim that the rustication order was issued on the basis of a complaint of physical assault filed by an Assistant Professor of this university. However, the administration chose not to follow due procedures and instead acted in an arbitrary and high-handed manner. No enquiry committee was constituted, nor did any disciplinary hearing take place. This is in direct contradiction of the rights of participants of this university, both their right to information regarding accusations against them and their right to appeal against a verdict that they find unsatisfactory. As an organization deeply committed to democratic ideals and modes of functioning, we do not condone any acts of violence on campus. However, we support the different student organizations and the EFLU student community in the protest against the unconstitutional steps taken by the administration and their attempts to suppress student voices. We urge the university community to join us in this struggle in the interest of safeguarding the democratic nature of the university campus.