Ashoka University co-founder Sanjeev Bikhchandani has expressed frustration over the ongoing controversy surrounding Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad, stating that the institution has become “too much of a headache”. In an internal email, Bikhchandani revealed that he and fellow co-founders Pramath Raj Sinha and Ashish Dhawan have seriously considered stepping away from Ashoka due to the escalating tensions.
🔴 Key Developments:
- Professor Mahmudabad was arrested on May 18 over a social media post related to Operation Sindoor, sparking debates on academic freedom and free speech.
- Bikhchandani rejected claims that Ashoka University was obligated to defend Mahmudabad’s personal views, stating that political opinions on social media do not qualify as academic scholarship.
- The Supreme Court granted Mahmudabad interim bail, but the investigation into his remarks continues.
📢 Bikhchandani’s Statement:
- “Ashoka is too much of a headache. Is it worth the effort?” he wrote in response to an alumnus questioning the university’s silence on Mahmudabad’s arrest.
- He emphasized that Ashoka is an educational institution, not a political movement, and must adhere to legal and regulatory frameworks.
⚠️ Future Outlook:
- The controversy has intensified discussions on free speech in academia, with students and faculty divided over the university’s stance.
- Ashoka’s leadership faces mounting pressure to clarify its position on academic freedom and institutional responsibility.
👉 Do you think Ashoka University should take a stand on this issue? Let us know in the comments!
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