Eighty-six professors from the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur have been served showcause notices, intensifying debates around academic freedom and institutional governance. Issued by the institute’s registrar, Capt. Amit Jain, the notice demands explanations for alleged violations of conduct rules. This development follows a previous notice to the teachers’ association regarding concerns over hiring practices and allegations of nepotism that were brought to the attention of the Union education minister.
The teachers’ association had sought an extension for its response deadline, which was denied. The administration’s subsequent actions, including initiating disciplinary measures, have raised concerns among faculty members who claim the institution is suppressing dissenting voices. According to internal communications, the association views these notices as a calculated move to deter criticism and enforce conformity.
The issue has drawn criticism from multiple quarters, with several academicians emphasizing the need to balance institutional discipline with the autonomy required for intellectual inquiry. Legal and educational experts argue that the incident reflects broader systemic issues within academic institutions, where administrative decisions increasingly encroach upon faculty governance and rights.