In a stark warning that has sent shockwaves through Mumbai’s academic circles, a sessions court today extended interim protection to nine Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) students who are seeking anticipatory bail. The judge cautioned that their involvement in a TISS students unauthorized event could permanently tarnish their professional futures.
Background/Context
On 14 October last year, a group of TISS students organized a gathering on the Deonar campus to mark the first death anniversary of Delhi University professor GN Saibaba, who had been incarcerated for alleged links to Maoist insurgents. Saibaba, who spent nearly a decade in Nagpur central jail, died on 12 October 2024 after a series of health complications following his acquittal in a UAPA case.
The event, which was held without official permission, drew slogans in support of jailed activists Sharjeel Imam and Umar Khalid. The TISS administration lodged a complaint with Trombay police, alleging unlawful assembly and incitement. The Mumbai Crime Branch, which took over the probe, has since added charges of criminal conspiracy, claiming the gathering was orchestrated by external parties.
Under the Maharashtra Police Act and the BNS (Bureau of Police Investigation) statutes, the students face accusations of unlawful assembly, rioting, and promoting enmity between different groups. The case has now escalated to a criminal court, where the judge’s remarks have amplified the stakes for the students involved.
Key Developments
The court’s decision to grant interim bail until 5 February, when the arguments on the pleas are expected to be heard, is a procedural move that does not absolve the students of the charges. However, the judge’s remarks carry a chilling undertone.
- Judge’s Warning: “You have a criminal record now, your record is with the police not just here but everywhere in the country. You know that you have made a blunder so early, before your career starts, your career is ruined,” the judge said, underscoring the long‑term implications of a criminal record.
- Employment Concerns: The judge questioned the students about their family backgrounds, noting that many come from outside Maharashtra and that their fathers hold government positions. He warned that a criminal record could jeopardise future government job prospects.
- Academic Credentials Questioned: When the students’ lawyer highlighted their Master’s in Social Work, the judge expressed scepticism, stating, “You think you are scientists or engineers? Even engineers don’t have jobs. Your degrees will not help you secure jobs under the circumstances.”
- Charges Expanded: The Mumbai Crime Branch has added criminal conspiracy charges, alleging that the event was organized at the behest of outside parties, thereby broadening the scope of the investigation.
These developments highlight the intersection of student activism, legal accountability, and career trajectories in India’s higher education landscape.
Impact Analysis
For the nine students, the court’s warning is more than a legal admonition; it is a stark reminder of how a single event can alter life trajectories. The implications are multifold:
- Professional Repercussions: A criminal record can bar candidates from public sector jobs, which constitute a significant portion of employment for social work graduates in India. Even private employers often require disclosure of pending criminal matters, potentially limiting job offers.
- Academic Consequences: The students’ academic records may be scrutinised by future institutions, affecting admissions to postgraduate programmes or research opportunities.
- Social Stigma: In a society where reputation matters, association with a criminal case can lead to social ostracism, affecting personal relationships and community standing.
- Psychological Stress: The uncertainty of legal proceedings can cause significant mental strain, impacting academic performance and overall well‑being.
These factors underscore why the court’s warning has resonated beyond the courtroom, prompting discussions among students, faculty, and policymakers about the boundaries of campus activism.
Expert Insights/Tips
Legal scholars and education experts weigh in on how students can navigate such situations while safeguarding their futures.
Legal Perspective: According to Dr. Anil Kumar, a professor of constitutional law at the University of Mumbai, “Students must understand that while freedom of expression is protected, it is not absolute. Organising events without institutional approval can lead to charges under the Maharashtra Police Act and BNS provisions. It is crucial to seek permission from campus authorities before staging any public gathering.”
Career Guidance: Ms. Priya Sharma, a career counsellor specialising in social work, advises, “Maintain a clean record and document all communications with campus authorities. If you are involved in activism, keep a log of permissions sought and responses received. This can be useful in future job applications or when explaining gaps in your CV.”
Practical Tips for Students:
- Always obtain written permission from the institution before organising campus events.
- Keep copies of all correspondence with faculty and administration.
- Consult a legal advisor if you are approached to participate in a protest or rally that may contravene campus rules.
- Maintain a professional online presence; social media posts can be scrutinised during background checks.
- Seek support from student unions or NGOs that can provide legal aid and counselling.
These measures can help students mitigate risks and demonstrate responsible civic engagement.
Looking Ahead
The case is still in its early stages, with the court scheduled to hear arguments on 5 February. The outcome will set a precedent for how student activism is treated under Indian law, especially in the context of politically charged events.
Policy makers are likely to revisit campus regulations to balance freedom of expression with institutional order. The TISS administration may introduce stricter guidelines for event approvals, while student bodies may push for clearer channels to voice dissent.
For students nationwide, the case serves as a cautionary tale: activism can be a powerful tool for social change, but it must be exercised within legal frameworks to avoid unintended career consequences.
As the legal proceedings unfold, stakeholders—including universities, student unions, and legal experts—will be watching closely to see how the balance between civic participation and institutional governance is negotiated.
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