IIT-Madras Lifts ban on Dalit Student Group

IIT-Madras decided to lift the ban on the dalit group, APSC, on Sunday evening.

(Photo: PTI)

IIT-Madras lifted the ban on the Ambedkar-Periyar Study Circle (APSC) on following a meeting between the Dalit students group and IIT director.

IIT-M found itself at the centre of a controversy after it recently derecognised APSC, many of whose members are Dalits, following a complaint that it was critical of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. IIT-M reinstated the recognition of the student group, and a professor has been appointed as its faculty adviser, bringing an end to what has been a week-long standoff with student protestors, reported The Hindustan Times.

The Dean of Students reinstated the recognition of APSC as an independent student body, and after consultation with the APSC representatives, recommended Professor Milind Brahme as the Faculty Advisor. Professor Brahme has consented to advise APSC as required in the guidelines for independent student bodies.
– an official release from IIT-M

Union HRD Minster Smriti Irani also came under fire from political parties including Congress and students bodies for the action against the APSC.

IIT-M, however, maintained that “as per the guidelines in force, student bodies cannot use its name or its official entities in any capacity to publicise their activities or garner support without official permission.”

Noting that the Board of Students met and discussed the issues raised by APSC regarding modifications and suggestions for ensuring uniform guidelines for independent student bodies, the release said, some of the suggestions will be taken up in “due course”.

Some of these will be implemented by the Office of Dean (Students), while the Student Affairs Council, Board of Students, and Senate will take up the modifications in due course for consideration as per established procedure.
– said the release

APSC and dean of students expressed satisfaction that the matter “has been closed”.