Campus Unrest at Pune University Over Alleged Discrimination in Sociology Dept
Pune University, 11th May 2025: A group of students from the Sociology Department at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) has been staging a sit-in protest since Friday, calling for the removal of the department head over allegations of mental harassment and discriminatory behavior.
Around 30 postgraduate and doctoral students have joined the protest, claiming they have faced psychological stress and intimidation within the academic environment.
“We’re committed to addressing the issue with fairness and urgency,” said SPPU Vice-Chancellor Dr. Suresh Gosavi, who acknowledged the students’ concerns and stated that efforts were underway to mediate the situation.
Allegations of Mental Harassment Spark Outcry
According to the protesting students, tensions escalated after a PhD scholar allegedly faced repeated neglect from the HoD regarding a date for research submission. “Despite several follow-ups, the student received no clarity. After reaching out to senior officials, including the VC, the student was called into the HoD’s office, where they experienced mental harassment severe enough to trigger a panic attack. They had to be taken to the campus health centre,” said one student, requesting anonymity.
The student community also pointed to an earlier letter dated April 12, in which several of them accused the department head of making demeaning and divisive remarks. They claimed that any attempt to raise concerns resulted in intimidation and veiled threats.
“This is not just about one incident. We’ve observed attempts to create divisions based on ideological beliefs. Our only demand is that the HoD steps down to ensure a healthy academic environment,” said another student involved in the protest.
Division Among Students
However, not all students support the protest. A section of the department believes the allegations are either exaggerated or baseless. “Most of the accusations don’t hold up to scrutiny. Maybe only a small portion—two to three percent—is factual,” said a student who opted out of the demonstration.
This division has led to contrasting narratives emerging from within the same department, complicating the administration’s response.
HoD Responds to Allegations
In response to the growing unrest, the department head issued a statement defending their conduct. “I have always tried to maintain a professional and empathetic approach toward students. While I’m aware of the ongoing demonstration, I have faith in the university’s procedures and believe that this matter can be resolved through dialogue,” the HoD said.
A senior official at SPPU added that while the grievances are being taken seriously, calling for a resignation without a thorough inquiry may set a “concerning precedent.” “We must ensure that every voice is heard and that due process is followed, rather than responding solely to protests,” the official stated.
Ongoing Protest and University’s Response
The protestors, however, say they have lost faith in internal redressal mechanisms. “The administration has been unresponsive for too long. Students from both the first and second years are united in continuing this protest until there is real accountability,” one of the demonstrators asserted.
