Derecognition of APSC: American mathematician David Mumford expresses shock, writes to IIT-Madras director

Madras: American mathematician David Mumford, who is known for his distinguished work in algebraic, geometry has written a letter to IIT-Madras director expressing shock over the derecognition of Ambedkar Periyar Study Circle (APSC).

In a letter to the IIT-Madras Director Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Mumfort, who has given numerous lectures in the institute, wrote, “I have strong ideas about the importance of free speech and especially the importance of allowing students to discuss vital and difficult issues that confront society today.”

Mumfort further added, “I was deeply shocked that the Ambedkar Periyar Study Circle was “derecognised’. I believe campuses must allow open discussion of divisive issues even when it offends some people so that all aspects of an issue are out in the open. Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders and one wants them to think deeply about the direction in which we are all headed.”

“On a more personal note, I see many similarities between India’s Dalit problems and the African-American problems that have rocked the US since its beginnings. For this reason, I personally take Dr. Ambedkar as one of my heroes,” he added.

Meanwhile, The National Commission for Scheduled Castes has issued notices to Union HRD Secretary and IIT-Madras Director asking them to appear before it after the institute defended its action against a student group.

The IIT-M, in reply to an earlier notice by the Commission, asserted that there has been no curtailment of “freedom of speech” or imposition of ban on any student organisation.

It claimed the registration of student organisation Ambedkar Periyar Study Circle (APSC) has been “withheld temporarily” as it had issued pamphlets and put up posters publicly with the name of IIT Madras without the requisite approval.

IIT-M is in the eye of a storm over alleged derecognition of APSC following a complaint that it was critical of Modi.

The action had led to protests by political parties and student organisations including NDA ally RPI which have termed it as an “act of injustice” and “attack” on freedom of expression.

Source: DNA