Jadavpur University Vice-Chancellor Chiranjib Bhattacharya has called on students to exercise moderation when writing graffiti across campus walls, recommending social media platforms as an alternative outlet for airing their viewpoints. The appeal follows renewed friction within the institution concerning political inscriptions and slogans displayed on university buildings.
In an open letter addressed to the university community, Bhattacharya underscored that Jadavpur University maintains an enduring legacy of independent thought and free speech. He observed that this heritage must be protected alongside sustained efforts to keep the grounds orderly, peaceful, and visually preserved.
Clarifying the intent of his message, the Vice-Chancellor stated that his communication was by no means designed to restrict democratic liberties. Rather, Bhattacharya emphasized the necessity of arriving at a workable equilibrium that respects democratic discourse while maintaining the university’s physical condition and academic environment.
Speaking to the news agency PTI, Bhattacharya reiterated that student groups should be guided toward digital communication channels rather than using university structures as surfaces for messaging.
‘Reclaim The Wall’ Campaign Renews Campus Debate
The Vice-Chancellor’s remarks arrived in the wake of an escalating controversy centered on political murals across the campus. Several controversial graffiti pieces were taken down recently following objections voiced by West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The dispute resurfaced shortly after when students repainted select slogans, bringing the university’s established tradition of wall messaging back under public scrutiny.
Friction deepened after Adhikari criticized specific phrases written on campus surfaces, which featured mentions of Maoist figure Kishenji as well as expressions linked to Kashmir. Following these observations, the Chief Minister called upon administrative officials at the institution to address what he termed objectionable texts inside the grounds.
In response, university authorities covered multiple wall sections bearing political rhetoric and murals in white paint. Student groups subsequently initiated a “Reclaim the Wall” demonstration, maintaining that the university’s boundary and building walls have traditionally provided a platform for political critique and social dialogue.
Institutional Property and Campus Appearance
Addressing the broader context of the demonstrations, Bhattacharya affirmed that university walls constitute institutional property, adding that he does not endorse political graffiti. He noted that widespread markings impact the visual impression of the premises, pointing out that guests visiting the institution might not view such displays favorably.
Despite these reservations, the Vice-Chancellor conceded that wall writing has functioned as an established element of student culture at Jadavpur University over many years.
The unfolding developments continue to spotlight the complex negotiations between institutional regulations and open debate within higher educational centers. While the university leadership remains focused on curtailing indiscriminate marking of campus facilities, student factions persist in treating institutional spaces as essential venues for participatory civic exchange.
Through his latest intervention, Bhattacharya seeks to uphold Jadavpur University’s recognized culture of critical thought while encouraging student activists to transition their ideological and societal messaging away from physical walls and onto digital networks.
