A wave of controversy has swept through Thakur College of Science & Commerce in Kandivali, Mumbai, following allegations that students from the BMM course were compelled to participate in a seminar organized by the college for BJP members.Allegations of CoercionAccording to a report by the Free Press Journal, students found themselves in a bewildering situation when their ID cards were confiscated, and they were directed to march to a session within the college premises. To their dismay, they discovered that the exits were locked, seemingly preventing any attempt to evade the event.#WATCH | Students at Mumbai College were allegedly forced to attend a session of the Union Ministers son.Shocking turn of events as students ID cards were confiscated and made to march to a session organized by the college.Read here: https://t.co/7RM8HTQ7yI#ThakurCollege… pic.twitter.com/J2gsyluZUE— Free Press Journal (@fpjindia) March 23, 2024Surprise Guest SpeakerUpon reaching the designated venue on the 7th floor, students were surprised to learn that Dhruv Goyal, the son of Union Minister Piyush Goyal, was slated to address the session. The focus of the seminar revolved around extolling the achievements of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP.Student DiscontentSpeaking on condition of anonymity, students expressed their dissatisfaction with the lack of transparency from college authorities. Many voiced their frustration, citing the additional stress caused by the unexpected imposition of the seminar, particularly amidst exam preparations.Suppression of DissentReports indicate that students who attempted to document the event through video recordings were reprimanded and instructed to delete their footage promptly. Furthermore, one student who voiced objections to the colleges conduct was reportedly silenced.Principals ResponseFollowing the departure of Dhruv Goyal, the college principal addressed the gathering and admonished students for their perceived lack of cooperation. However, students maintain that they were not adequately consulted or informed about the seminar beforehand.Seeking AccountabilityDespite attempts to seek clarification from college authorities, responses have yet to be received. The lack of transparency and allegations of coercion have sparked widespread condemnation and calls for accountability within the college community.The events at Thakur College have ignited a debate surrounding academic autonomy, freedom of expression, and the role of educational institutions in political activities. As the controversy unfolds, students and stakeholders await a resolution and assurance that such incidents will not recur in the future.
