Hyderabad University revokes suspension of rusticated students

Under sharp criticism for suspending five Dalit scholars, including Rohith Vemula who committed suicide on Sunday, for allegedly assaulting an ABVP leader, the Hyderabad University on Thursday revoked the suspension of the students.

The development in this regard came hours after more than 10 SC/ST teachers of the University resigned from their 'administrative roles' protesting against Union HRD Minister Smriti Irani's remarks in Delhi that Dalit faculty members were also part of the varsity's probe that eventually led to the expulsion of Vemula and four others.

The teachers alleged that baseless and misleading statements by Irani were bringing down the morale of the Dalits holding administrative positions in the university.

The HRD Minister in a clear reference to political rivals said that 'malicious attempts are being made to make the incident a 'Dalit v/s non-Dalit' issue to ignite passions'.

Irani evaded a query whether she agreed with Cabinet colleague Bandaru Dattatreya's view calling Ambedkar Students' Association 'anti-national'.

Meanwhile, politicians from various parties continued to mount pressure on the Centre demanding action against Irani and her Cabinet colleague Bandaru Dattatreya, charged with abetting Vemula's suicide.

The Opposition has also been demanding the resignation of Hyderabad University Vice Chancellor Appa Rao.