The Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development (RGNIYD) in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, has suspended three second-year Master of Social Work (MSW) students for allegedly defacing hostel walls with the slogans “Jai Bhim” and “Free Palestine.” The suspension was issued on Sunday, May 25, just a day before the students were scheduled to appear for their final semester exams.
The institute termed the slogans “anti-national” and accused the students—Aslam S, Sayeedh M A, and Nahal Ibnu Abullaise—of “gross misconduct,” based on findings from an internal disciplinary committee. The suspension not only bars the students from entering the campus and hostel premises but also denies them the opportunity to appear for their final exams, disrupting their academic year.
However, the suspended students have denied any involvement in the graffiti and alleged that the disciplinary process was biased and lacked transparency. “Only a few rooms on the second floor were inspected. No incriminating evidence was found in our rooms,” said Nahal. He added that a paint roller and a disposable plate with colored paints—cited as possible evidence—were used for field action projects that were part of their coursework. The students claimed to have documentation supporting this explanation, which they say was ignored by the committee.
It is alleged that Aslam, a member of the student council, was targeted by the institution for being vocal in protests demanding action against an Assistant Registrar accused of sexual assault.
Students and alumni have begun rallying in support of the suspended students, expressing solidarity on social media and demanding transparency and justice from the administration. Critics have pointed out that slogans like “Jai Bhim”—a popular call for social justice—and “Free Palestine” do not constitute anti-national activity under Indian law.