Democracy in motion: Mamata slams PM for 'insulting' Jadavpur University

Kolkata: Claiming that student protests symbolise "democracy in motion", West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of "insulting" the reputation of Jadavpur University. Banerjee's remarks came after Modi, addressing a rally in Jadavpur, referred to "anti-national" slogans being written on the walls of the iconic university.

The CM responded promptly through a social media post, defending the academic standing of Jadavpur University and asserting that student protests represent "democracy in motion". Posting on X, the CM wrote: "Pained to ask: Is this the way you describe the meritorious students of the esteemed Jadavpur University? Is this your concept of decorum and courtesy? Jadavpur University has been receiving top ranks from your government's NIRF ranking framework year after year, and you descend to insult that centre of excellence? You stoop so low? The students of Jadavpur University have earned their place through merit and walk out with degrees, with intellect, with the ability to question. That is not anarchy. That is education and that is excellence."



Also Read:Fish, meat & West Bengal elections: It’s about money and not politics

Referring to the situation on campus, the Prime Minister had said: "Threats are being made inside Jadavpur University campus, anti-national slogans are being written on the walls," while blaming the Bengal government for "failing" to save the state's largest educational institution.

Hitting back at Modi, Banerjee said, "Anarchy is not students raising their voices. Anarchy is using bulldozers as instruments of power instead of justice. Anarchy is when farmers die and their voices are crushed. Anarchy is when those convicted of rape and other heinous crimes walk free for political convenience. Anarchy is denying the poor their rightful dues. Anarchy is dividing a nation along religious lines for votes. Anarchy is refusing to face the press, refusing accountability, refusing questions. Anarchy is refusing to acknowledge that Manipur is burning but you are busy with elections."

Also Read: West Bengal elections 2026: The real numbers test for Mamata Banerjee’s command & BJP’s pitch

"Students protesting do not signal a breakdown of democracy - it is democracy in motion. Please do not defame an educational institution inspired by early nationalists like Sri Aurobindo. Please do not defame Bengal," she added.