The ongoing controversy over de-recognition of a student body in IIT Madras following allegations that the group was creating “caste” polarisation has touched a political note after a Twitter battle ensued between Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi and Union Minister Smriti Irani.The Congress Vice-President's Twitter account on Friday tweeted that they “will fight any attempt to crush dissent and debate” referring to the de-recognition of Ambedkar-Periyar Study Circle (APSC).Following this, Human Resource Development Minister Smriti Irani hit back with a series of tweets stating that she was ready “to debate everything regarding governance including education.”Free speech is our right. We will fight any attempt to crush dissent and debate: Rahul Gandhi (2/2) — Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) May 29, 2015 @OfficeofRG give me a time n place n I'm ready to debate everything re governance including education. — Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) May 29, 2015 @OfficeofRG next time fight ur battles ur self don't hide behind NSUI. N by d way I'm b returning to Amethi soon. See you there. — Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) May 29, 2015The minister reportedly denied any role in the ban against the group saying IIT Madras is an autonomous institution which handled the affairs on its own.In an anonymous complaint forwarded to the Central government, the group was accused of trying to spread hatred towards “Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Hindus” by circulating provocative pamphlets and posters.