Government will not yield to unacceptable protests, says Minister Roji M. John
Higher Education Minister Roji M. John addressed the media regarding the disruption of a convocation ceremony at Maharaja’s College.
Higher Education Minister Roji M. John stated on Saturday that the government will not surrender to protests that cross democratic limits, according to The Hindu.
The Minister was referring to a protest by Students’ Federation of India (SFI) activists during the Maharaja’s College convocation ceremony on Friday. SFI activists allegedly disrupted his speech to seek answers regarding the suspension of 16 students from Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Kalady.
Mr. John said that while he views raising banners or placards as part of the democratic process, certain norms and decorum must be observed. He noted that a convocation ceremony represents a dream for students and parents and carries its own dignity.
The Minister added that the university, rather than the government, is responsible for student discipline. He stated that it falls within the university's mandate to initiate, review, or reconsider disciplinary action.
Regarding the incident, Mr. John said he asked the protesting students to wait and assured them he would answer their questions afterwards. He said the government cannot agree with disrupting events like a convocation.