The Lok Sabha member from Rampur expresses support for Azam Khan’s university, saying educational institutions should not be targeted
RAMPUR — Samajwadi Party MP Mohibbullah Nadvi has come out in support of Mohammad Ali Jauhar University, saying that educational institutions should not be targeted and that governments have a responsibility to protect centres of learning.
Speaking at a certificate distribution ceremony in Rampur on Sunday, Nadvi voiced support for the university established under the leadership of veteran Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan, while also criticising the BJP-led government on several issues.
His remarks come at a time when Mohammad Ali Jauhar University continues to face legal and administrative challenges, including recent action by tax authorities.
Commenting on the controversy surrounding Jauhar University, Nadvi said educational institutions play an important role in society and should not become victims of political disputes.
“Educational institutions should not be targeted. Jauhar University was built through great effort and hard work. Protecting such institutions is the responsibility of the government,” he said.
The MP argued that universities and colleges should be viewed primarily as centres of education that serve students and contribute to social development.
His comments were welcomed by supporters of the university, who have repeatedly expressed concern about actions affecting its operations.
Remarks on Tax Department Action
Nadvi’s statement follows action by the Income Tax Department against the Jauhar Trust, including the cancellation of its 12AB registration, a development that has drawn political attention in Uttar Pradesh.
The Samajwadi Party leader maintained that any investigation should be conducted fairly and in accordance with the law while ensuring that students and educational activities are not adversely affected.
The Rampur MP also referred to issues concerning permissions and approvals obtained during the establishment of the university.
According to Nadvi, when the university was developed, the local development authority did not have jurisdiction over the area in question.
He claimed that the necessary approvals were available at the local level at the time.
“When the university was established, the RDA did not have jurisdiction there. The required permissions were obtained from the authorities concerned,” he said.
He urged the government to ensure that the institution does not suffer damage while legal and administrative matters are being addressed.
Nadvi also spoke about the legal cases involving Azam Khan and expressed confidence in the judicial process.
“We have full faith in the judiciary. We hope the courts will deliver justice and that a fair decision will be reached,” he said.
Azam Khan, once one of the most influential leaders in Uttar Pradesh politics, continues to face multiple legal proceedings that have remained the subject of political debate.
During his address, Nadvi also criticised the government over several national and state-level issues.
Referring to allegations related to the NEET examination paper leak case, he said the law should apply equally to all individuals, regardless of their position or influence.
He noted that FIRs had been registered and arrests made in connection with the case, adding that those found guilty should face strict and impartial action.
“The law must be equal for everyone. Whoever is responsible should face fair and strict action,” he said.
The Samajwadi Party MP also made political remarks regarding the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.
Expressing confidence in his party’s prospects, he claimed that a change in government would take place in the state and that corruption would be addressed more effectively.
His comments are likely to be viewed as part of the broader political mobilisation already underway ahead of the next assembly elections.
Mohammad Ali Jauhar University remains one of the most prominent educational institutions associated with Azam Khan and has frequently been at the centre of legal and political discussions.
Supporters argue that the university has provided educational opportunities to thousands of students and should be safeguarded from any action that could affect its academic role.
Critics, however, maintain that all institutions must comply with legal and regulatory requirements and that investigations should proceed wherever authorities find grounds to act.
As debates continue over the university’s future, Nadvi’s remarks have added another political voice in support of the institution, while drawing attention to wider concerns about education, governance and accountability.
