Three Muslim students pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) at the Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, said they were arbitrarily suspended by the institution, which, without evidence, labeled them anti-national over slogans like “Free Palestine” and “Jai Bhim.”
“On 25th May 2025, we were served with rustication and suspension orders from RGNIYD with immediate effect, citing alleged ‘gross misconduct’ and involvement in the ‘defacement of hostel property with anti-national content’,” read a statement by students Aslam S, Sayeedh M A, and Nahal Ibnu Abullaise.
The students said that the action was taken just one day before their scheduled final year MSW examinations.
“We categorically deny any involvement in the writing or display of slogans on hostel property. The wall writings cited by the administration included phrases such as ‘Free Palestine’ and ‘Jai Bhim’, neither of which constitutes anti-national activity under any legal or constitutional standard,” say the students.
“The disciplinary process was biased and unjust. Only a few rooms on the second floor were inspected, and no incriminating evidence or materials were found in our rooms. The authorities discovered one paint roller and a disposable plate with different colors of paint, which we clarified were used for our field action project as part of our academic requirements. We have valid evidence to support this explanation. Despite this, the Disciplinary Committee concluded that we were responsible, without presenting any verifiable or documented proof,” they added.
The students said that they were called to a disciplinary hearing on 23rd May 2025, but the process lacked transparency and fairness.
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