Bengaluru professor calls student ‘terrorist’ 13 times after disagreement, booked

Manipal University Faces Scrutiny Over Professor’s Remarks and Student Allegations

Manipal, Karnataka – A significant incident unfolded at the esteemed Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) in late 2022, drawing widespread attention and sparking vital conversations about academic environments and freedom of speech. An engineering professor at the institution found himself at the center of a controversy after being recorded allegedly calling a student a “terrorist” multiple times during a classroom exchange. The fallout from this event has raised serious questions for university administration, particularly in light of subsequent unverified allegations of student suspensions.

The incident, which occurred in November 2022, involved a disagreement between a third-year civil engineering student and his professor, Dr. Shankar Reddy, over an exam question. The heated exchange escalated dramatically when the professor, during the argument, reportedly uttered the derogatory term “terrorist” multiple times towards the student, who is from a minority community. The student, showing remarkable composure, recorded parts of the interaction on his phone. In the now-viral video, the student is heard challenging the professor, asserting that such a statement was inappropriate and could have severe consequences for his community. The professor, in turn, appeared to offer an apology, attempting to de-escalate the situation by claiming the remark was a “joke.” However, the student rightly pointed out that “being a Muslim and being called a terrorist is not a joke.”

Following the immediate circulation of the video on social media platforms, public outrage surged. Commentators across various online forums and civil society groups condemned the professor’s conduct as unprofessional, discriminatory, and a grave violation of academic decorum. The incident quickly became a trending topic, forcing the university to address the matter publicly.

Responding to the growing pressure, the Manipal Institute of Technology administration took swift action. The university suspended Dr. Shankar Reddy, acknowledging the severity of his remarks. In an official statement, MIT emphasized its commitment to maintaining an inclusive and respectful academic atmosphere, condemning any form of discrimination. Local police in Udupi district also registered a case against the professor under sections related to promoting enmity between different groups, following a formal complaint. This immediate response from the university and law enforcement aimed to restore faith in the institution’s disciplinary processes and commitment to student welfare.

However, the controversy did not entirely subside. The initial shock gave way to further scrutiny, particularly regarding the environment for students who voice dissent. While the widely reported facts from established news outlets focus primarily on the professor’s actions and the university’s response to him, there surfaced unverified allegations suggesting that other students who expressed solidarity with the affected student or objected to the professor’s behavior faced disciplinary action, including potential suspension. These claims, though not broadly corroborated by major news reports, highlight underlying concerns about student freedom to protest or question authority without fear of reprisal. Such allegations, if true, would represent a concerning trend in higher education institutions, where open dialogue and critical thinking are supposed to be paramount.

For Omni 360 News, this incident serves as a critical reminder of the delicate balance universities must maintain between disciplinary action for misconduct and fostering an environment where students feel safe and empowered to speak up against injustice. It underscores the profound impact words can have, especially from figures of authority within an educational setting, and the responsibility that comes with such positions. The case has fueled broader discussions within academic circles and among the public regarding diversity, inclusion, and the need for stricter guidelines on professional conduct for educators.

Key Takeaways from the Manipal Incident:

• Verbal Misconduct: A professor used highly offensive and discriminatory language against a student during a classroom dispute.
• Immediate Repercussions: The university swiftly suspended the professor, and a police complaint was filed against him.
• Viral Outcry: Social media played a crucial role in bringing the incident to light and mobilizing public opinion.
• Allegations of Further Action: Unverified reports circulated about other students facing disciplinary action for their solidarity, raising concerns about student freedoms.
• Call for Accountability: The event highlights the critical need for educational institutions to ensure respectful environments and hold faculty accountable for their conduct.

This incident at Manipal Institute of Technology stands as a poignant example of how quickly an academic disagreement can morph into a national talking point, compelling institutions to reassess their values and practices. As students navigate their educational journeys, the expectation remains that universities will not only uphold academic excellence but also champion principles of equity, respect, and open expression, ensuring that learning environments are safe and free from prejudice for all. The unfolding narrative underscores the power of student voices and the ever-present need for vigilance against all forms of discrimination in our educational spaces.