Controversial NIT-Calicut Professor Appointed as Dean, Sparks Political Outrage

Kozhikode, Kerala – February 26: The National Institute of Technology-Calicut (NIT-Calicut) has appointed Dr. Shaija A as the Dean of the Planning and Development Department, effective from March 7, despite an ongoing police case against her for praising Nathuram Godse on Mahatma Gandhi’s Martyr’s Day. The decision has ignited strong opposition from political organizations.

Dr. Shaija was arrested in February last year after multiple complaints were filed by organizations, including the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), the Students' Federation of India (SFI), and the Youth Congress. The controversy stemmed from her social media comment in response to a right-wing advocate’s post, where she allegedly expressed "pride" in Godse for assassinating Mahatma Gandhi, stating that he "saved India."

Although the Kunnamangalam court later granted her anticipatory bail, the police had registered a case against her under Section 153 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for "wantonly giving provocation with intent to cause riots."

Her appointment as Dean has triggered widespread protests, with DYFI announcing a protest march to NIT-Calicut in opposition to the decision.

According to the institute’s order, Dr. Shaija is expected to work alongside the current Dean, Dr. Priya Chandran, until March 7 to ensure a smooth transition. The appointment is initially set for two years, subject to further orders.

The controversy escalates, with political groups and student organizations questioning the institution’s decision, while NIT-Calicut remains firm on its administrative order.