Azad Kashmir, Free Palestine graffiti ignites controversy at Jadavpur University

NEW DELHI: The recent appearance of graffiti reading “Azad Kashmir” and “Free Palestine” at Jadavpur University in Kolkata has sparked a significant controversy.

The slogans, painted in black near Gate No. 3 of the university, have led to debates and protests on campus. The incident occurred amidst ongoing tensions following a separate protest earlier this month.

The graffiti, which appeared on March 10, 2025, has drawn sharp reactions from various student groups and political factions. While the identity of those responsible remains unknown, the incident has fueled accusations and counter-accusations.

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Kishalay Roy, president of the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMC’s student wing) at the university, alleged, “Some ultra-left student outfits are behind this, and more such graffiti can be spotted across the campus.”

On the other hand, Abhinaba Basu, a leader of the Students’ Federation of India (SFI), denied involvement, stating, “We don’t support secessionist views, though we are against the repression of minorities in BJP-ruled states.”

The controversy has also highlighted broader issues on campus. Students and faculty have expressed concerns over the alleged presence of plain clothes police officers on university grounds.

Souryadipto Roy, another SFI leader, remarked, “We refuse to participate in any discussion with the university administration till police personnel leave.”

This sentiment was echoed by the Jadavpur University Teachers’ Association (JUTA), whose General Secretary, Partha Pratim Roy, stated, “We don’t welcome the presence of police on the campus, uniformed or in plain dress.”

The university administration has clarified that it did not summon the police and was unaware of their presence inside the campus.

However, police personnel have reportedly been stationed outside the university since March 1, following an incident where two students were injured during a protest involving the convoy of West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu.

The graffiti has reignited debates about freedom of expression, campus safety, and political interference in educational institutions. Om Prakash Mishra, a senior faculty member associated with a TMC-leaning academic forum, commented, “We are against any poster and graffiti which support secessionist views.”

As protests continue, the university community remains divided. While some demand accountability and action against those responsible for the graffiti, others emphasize the need to address broader issues of campus governance and student rights.

The incident underscores the complex interplay of politics, education, and activism at one of India’s most prominent universities.