All religions are respected on the campus and offering prayers is not a crime, says the university administration
Team Clarion
MEERUT — A fresh controversy has arisen at the IIMT University in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, after a video showing Muslim students offering Namaz in a group went viral on social media.
Several organisations, led by Hindutva leader Sachin Sirohi, have strongly objected to the prayers, demanding legal action against the students. However, the university administration has taken a firm stand, stating that all religions are respected on the campus and that offering prayers is not a crime.
During the holy month of Ramadan, a group of Muslim students gathered on the university campus to offer namaz. A video capturing the moment surfaced online, quickly drawing attention. The footage was reportedly shared by a user named Khalid Pradhan, showing students engaged in prayer while someone recorded the event from behind. The clip has since sparked widespread debate on social media.
Hindutva leader Sirohi voiced his discontent over the incident, alleging that the practice of offering namaz in educational institutions is unacceptable. “If reading Hanuman Chalisa at a public place can lead to legal action, then why is namaz being allowed here?” Sirohi questioned, calling for immediate police intervention. He further argued that a university is a temple of education where, according to Sanatan Dharma, Maa Saraswati resides. With a statue of the goddess installed on campus, he contended that religious practices outside Hindu traditions should not be permitted.
Sirohi and his supporters have warned that if the administration does not act, they will be forced to stage protests.
In the wake of the controversy, the university administration has taken a balanced stance, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to religious inclusivity. “Our university respects all religions, and we do not see anything wrong with students offering prayers,” a university spokesperson stated. The management’s firm position has been widely appreciated, particularly among those who advocate for religious freedom and coexistence.
The university’s response highlights the fundamental right of individuals to practice their faith peacefully, even in academic institutions. The administration has not bowed to pressure from extremist voices, instead choosing to uphold the values of secularism and mutual respect.
As of now, the police have not issued any official statement regarding the matter. While Hindu groups continue to push for legal action, authorities have remained silent, possibly awaiting further developments before making a decision.
This incident follows a similar controversy in Firozabad, where a man offering namaz in a hospital corner led to an uproar from Hindu organisations. In that case, the hospital administration ordered an investigation after protests erupted. Such incidents indicate a growing pattern of religious tensions over public expressions of faith.
The situation at IIMT University raises pressing questions about religious tolerance and the limits of expression in academic spaces. While institutions like this university strive to maintain harmony and uphold constitutional values, growing sectarian debates continue to challenge India’s secular fabric.
Despite the uproar, the university’s dignified response sets a precedent for other institutions grappling with similar challenges. By affirming students’ right to pray, the university reinforces the fundamental principles of freedom of religion and peaceful coexistence, which are essential for a diverse society like India.
