Meanwhile, Mehta wrote a letter to the students, urging them not to “push” for his return, stating that the circumstances that led to his resignation will not change for the foreseeable future.
Haryana’s university in Sonipat became the center of controversy earlier this week, when Mehta, who had resigned as vice chancellor two years ago, decided to resign as professor, saying the founders made it “very clear” that his association with the institution was a “political responsibility.”
Subramanian, the government’s former chief economic adviser, had resigned from the university two days later in solidarity with Mehta.
“We recognize that there have been some lapses in the institutional processes that we will work to rectify in consultation with all stakeholders. This will reaffirm our commitment to autonomy and academic freedom that have always been at the center of the Ashoka University ideals, “said the institution in a statement.
“Ashoka has been privileged to have been led, mentored and mentored by Pratap first as Vice Chancellor and then as Senior Lecturer. Subramanian brought eminence, stature, fresh ideas and energy to the university and his departure leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. “he added.
The statement has been issued jointly by the rector of the university, the vice-rector and the president of the Board, together with Mehta and Subramanian.
“Pratap and Arvind would like to emphasize that Ashoka The university is one of the most important projects in Indian higher education. They are sad to leave Ashoka, especially their outstanding students and teachers. They continue to firmly believe that Ashoka University should embody a liberal vision and a commitment to academic freedom and autonomy.
“And they remain lifelong friends and supporters of the institution and are committed to its success wherever they are,” the statement said, adding that the two professors will remain “available to advise and consult the university in the future.”
Students have called for a two-day school boycott starting Monday in protest at the events. Mehta, however, said she wants to close this chapter.
“The underlying circumstances that led to the resignation will not change for the foreseeable future, in my case, at least. So I must close this chapter. I urge you not to push this matter. I know you will be disappointed. But if I can exercise one last bit of teacher discretion: your mission is bigger than the destiny of two teachers, ”Mehta said in her letter to students.
“The balance and articulation with which you defended important values and demanded responsibility should make anyone want to associate with this university. You are its beating heart and soul and nothing can harm that,” he said.
“Second, it is not my place to intercede on this matter. But I imagine that her voice, in the long run, will make Ashoka a better university and re-commit to her ideals and values. So her outpouring is already a kind of victory. You have taught us by example, what badly we were trying to teach you with the lectures, “he added.
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