Team Clarion
MUMBAI — The Indian Institute of Technology Mumbai (IIT-B) has come under fire from right-wing organisations for providing arrangements for Sehri (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (meal to break the fast) for its Muslim students during Ramadan. The arrangements, announced via email to students, were aimed at helping those fasting during the holy month. However, critics have questioned the initiative, arguing that it goes ‘against’ the secular nature of the institute.
In response, the IIT-B management defended the arrangements, emphasising that the institution upholds a secular character, ensuring equal respect for all religious practices. Faculty members and students have rallied behind the initiative, dismissing the criticism as unfounded and divisive.
Akshay Sawant, a representative from the Bihar Phule Study Circle (APPSC), a student body at IIT-B, strongly rejected the allegations. “Every festival is celebrated on our campus, including many Hindu festivals such as Holi, Diwali, and Ganesh Chaturthi, with great enthusiasm. These allegations are baseless and merely aimed at disturbing the pleasant atmosphere of the department,” Sawant said.
The arrangements were made through a Google form, sent to students to indicate how many would require the facilities. This practice was also followed in previous years, ensuring proper organization of resources. Despite this, the right-wing student group criticized the efforts, claiming it was an unnecessary concession.
“Last year, this form was also circulated, and the arrangements were made successfully. The criticism this year is nothing more than an attempt to stoke unnecessary controversy,” said a faculty member who wished to remain anonymous.
The issue escalated after a Ramadan 2025 volunteers’ email outlined the arrangements for Sehar and Iftar within the campus. The email invited students to sign up for the provisions, which led to a heated debate, further exacerbated by the involvement of right-wing student groups.
IIT-B, India’s largest technical institution and one of the most prestigious globally, has long been a symbol of inclusivity. With students from diverse regions across India and abroad, IIT-B prides itself on maintaining a multicultural and secular environment, where students of all backgrounds coexist and celebrate festivals from various faiths.
An IIT-B spokesperson stated, “Our institution is committed to fostering an environment of inclusivity, where every student is respected regardless of their religious or cultural background. The facilities for Sehar and Iftar are just one example of our dedication to providing a supportive environment for all our students.”
Despite attempts to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere on campus, the institution remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold its core values of secularism and inclusivity, maintaining that the initiative is in line with its diverse community’s needs.
