‘Iran war happened because of people like you’, professor tells student in class – terrorists

An FIR was lodged against an assistant professor of a private university on Saturday for calling a student a ‘terrorist’ and making objectionable remarks in the classroom in Bengaluru, Karnataka. According to police, a video showing the professor scolding a student and accusing him of disrupting class has gone viral on social media. This incident happened on 24 March.

Case registered under several sections

After this incident, the student contacted the college administration, after which the professor was suspended on Friday. Police have registered a case against the professor under sections 299 (malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings) and 352 (insult with intent to provoke breach of peace) of the Indian Justice Code.

Video went viral

A senior police officer said, ‘We had not received any complaint from the student. However, taking cognizance of the video and based on preliminary investigation, we have registered a case ourselves. Investigation into the matter is ongoing.

You are a fool… you will go to hell – Professor

According to the FIR, the professor repeatedly called the student a ‘terrorist’ in class and verbally abused him. According to the FIR, the professor also said, ‘The Iran war happened because of people like you. Trump will take you. You idiot, you will go to hell.’

The professor said this in the class among 60 students

The comments were made in front of around 60 students, creating an ‘extremely hostile and offensive environment’. The FIR also alleges that CCTV footage that could prove to be crucial evidence was removed, raising serious questions on accountability and transparency.

The professor did not apologize to the student

According to the FIR, some students who supported the victim student were suspended citing the official reason of ‘talking in class’. Although the professor later submitted an apology to the college, he did not apologize directly to the student.

Professor suspended with immediate effect

The head of the department apologized on behalf of the professor. The professor is also accused of indirectly warning the student not to pursue the matter further. The suspension order issued by the university said, ‘A case of student’s complaint has been received. You are suspended with immediate effect pending a detailed investigation.

Meanwhile, Congress’ student wing National Students Union of India (NSUI) has approached the police alleging that the professor insulted the student and demanding strict action against him.