Jadavpur University panel leader steps back, raising doubts on probe timeline

The investigation into the recent SFI‑ABVP clash at Jadavpur University was to be overseen by a three‑member committee. However, Subha Shankar Sarkar, the designated chairperson and former vice‑chancellor of Netaji Subhas Open University, declined the appointment in an email sent Saturday evening.

The decision came after the All‑India Bharatiya Rashtriya Shiksha Mahasangh lodged a formal objection, pointing to Sarkar’s alleged participation in teacher‑recruitment decisions during the previous Trinamool Congress regime. The remaining members – Arunashish Goswami and Soumendu Chattopadhyay – are still slated to serve.

University administrators now confront uncertainty over whether the panel can commence its work on time. They may either replace the chairperson or reconstitute the entire committee, with a final decision likely to be disclosed early next week.