Pune: Political Row Erupts at Savitribai Phule Pune University Over ‘Voice of Devendra’ Elocution Competition

Pune, 12th August 2025: Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) has found itself at the centre of a political controversy after the announcement of an elocution competition titled ‘Voice of Devendra’. The programme, reportedly named after Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has drawn sharp criticism from student bodies and political leaders who allege it promotes political glorification within educational institutions.

The event was publicised by the university’s National Service Scheme (NSS) department, which maintained that the title was intended as a source of inspiration. However, the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) and Youth Congress accused the organisers of using the academic platform for political propaganda. Politicians, including Rohit Pawar and Sushma Andhare also expressed disapproval through social media.

In response, NSUI activists and allied student groups staged a demonstration outside the NSS office, chanting slogans such as “Save Education, Save University, Save Democracy.” Protesters called for the immediate cancellation of the contest, resignation of the acting NSS director, and a formal assurance from the university that such events would not be repeated. The agitation led to heated confrontations between student representatives and the university administration.

However, NSS chief Dr. Sadanand Bhosale clarified that the competition was not directly organized by SPPU but was proposed by certain social organizations. He added that similar contests had been conducted previously and emphasised that this event would not be held on campus or in affiliated colleges. Following the uproar, the administration withdrew the circular and removed it from its website.

State coordinator Vaibhav Solankar asserted that SPPU had no organisational role in the competition and accused Rohit Pawar of circulating misinformation. He insisted that there was no political agenda behind the initiative.

While the announcement has been withdrawn, the incident has reignited discussions about political interference in academia and its potential to undermine institutional autonomy. The matter is now in the hands of the Vice-Chancellor, even as tensions persist between political factions and student unions.