Thread by @IAMCouncil

Delhi University Professor @Apoorvanand__ delivering his remarks on how #HinduSupremacists are choking and stifling academic freedom in India and how the very same model is being implemented in the United States

https://twitter.com/IAMCouncil/status/1435634292835577856

“The idea of academic freedom has now become redundant in India. The primary reason for it is the complete takeover of all institutions by the ruling BJP along with Rashtriya Swaymsevak Sangh, a fascist organization" @Apoorvanand__

“In India, academic spaces are controlled by appointing Vice-Chancellors or directors who toe the line of the state and follow the ideological diktat of the RSS, many times without even being asked.”

“Recently three teachers of a central university were issued show-cause notice for having written collectively asking for internet facility on the campus for online classes” ~ Professor @Apoorvanand__

“At this point of time, most of the universities have Vice-Chancellors who have some organizational link with the RSS or its affiliates. They create an atmosphere that is so intimidating that teachers prefer to remain silent.”

“Muscle power of the student wing of the RSS known as the ABVP is unleashed. There are scores of examples of the ABVP attacking seminars, film screenings, beating up the participants, lodging criminal cases against speakers.”

“Recently a teacher at the central university of Kerala was suspended by the university after the ABVP made a complaint against his class lecture on fascism. He was forced to tender an apology to get the suspension revoked.”

“We know about incidents in which invitations have been withdrawn, talks , seminars canceled. You cannot discuss issues about which the RSS or the ruling party is sensitive.”

“It has become extraordinarily difficult in India for academics to publish books on subjects which are politically or ideologically sensitive” ~ Professor @Apoorvanand__

“A long legal vetting of the manuscript has become a norm and very often the writers are asked to remove portions which might attract violent attention from the RSS affiliates or legal cases by them.”

“This regime has successfully defamed the very act of intellection. Universities like the JNU or DU have been portrayed as dens of anti-nationals. The act of critical thinking is seen as a seditious act which is also anti-national.”