The Governor of West Bengal, in his capacity as Chancellor of Calcutta University, is deeply concerned by the disturbing reports regarding the state of affairs at South Calcutta Law College under Calcutta University. The situation, which has reportedly persisted for some time, has drawn serious attention.
The Vice Chancellor of Calcutta University has been in regular contact with the Governor regarding the unfolding developments. The Governor has urged the Vice Chancellor to take every necessary step to safeguard the interests of the student community and to ensure that the administration of the colleges under the University functions strictly in accordance with established rules and regulations. It was emphasized that the governance of educational institutions must be conducted without fear or favour.
This principle, the Governor noted, applies uniformly across all universities and colleges in the State — a State that once spearheaded the Indian renaissance, inspired mass movements for justice, equality, liberty, and harmony, and stood resilient against colonial oppression.
Highlighting West Bengal’s historic role in imparting quality education, the Governor stated that education is not merely a path to employment, but the cradle of civility, social etiquette, tolerance, respect, and responsible behaviour. Education nurtures emotional intelligence, empathy, and the ability to resolve conflicts — laying the foundation for a harmonious and respectful society.
The Governor called upon civil society to play its role in defending the mandate of education whenever it comes under threat. “Those who suffer in silence are just as guilty as those committing the excesses,” he remarked.
The Governor stressed the role of the law enforcement agencies in rounding up the perpetrators and fast-tracking the investigation into the unfortunate events at the law college. He underscored that it is the collective responsibility of the college administration and students to ensure that the temple of learning is dedicated to its true purpose — teaching and learning — and is not allowed to become a refuge for anti-social elements.
“No one — however powerful or well-connected — can be allowed to hold an educational institution hostage or to exert totalitarian power with elements of violence. The law stands above all, and no external force can override the administration governed by established procedures and regulations,” the Governor said, invoking British historian Thomas Fuller’s timeless words: “Be ye never so high, the law is above you.”
The Governor urged students to continue their studies without fear, confident that the college administration, university authorities, and law enforcement agencies are united in protecting their welfare. He called upon society to reject every attempt to disrupt education’s progress.
“For every diabolical attempt to insert a ‘full stop’ after education,” the Governor declared, “society must respond by turning it into a semicolon — delivering a clear message: Stop, or we shall make you stop; and the effect will be devastating for you.”
