The ongoing protest at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Sikkim has taken a dramatic turn, with the administration and students levelling accusations of disseminating false information against each other.
The administration has taken issue with an article published by EastMojo on February 15, titled “Here’s why NIT Sikkim students are protesting.” The article alleges that students camped outside the Director’s residence in chilly weather, only to discover his absence. However, the administration maintains that students were fully aware of the director’s unavailability due to official commitments.
The administration also disputes the article’s claim that students were promised an online interaction with Director Mahesh Chandra Govil on February 14. The administration insists that an online interaction was offered from the beginning of the protest and did take place on February 14, with the Sub Divisional Magistrate Ravangla present.
Students’ call out admin lies
The students, in turn, have released a press statement denying the administration’s claims. They acknowledged the peaceful nature of their protest but expressed dissatisfaction with the administration’s communication and attempts to downplay the situation.
The students also expressed distrust in the director, alleging that false information is circulating about his arrival dates and attempts to threaten them with police intervention and a three-month shutdown of the college.
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The students’ statement further emphasised that their demands are based on concrete evidence and firsthand testimonies, with no additional demands being endorsed by the students. They called on the media to support the students and question the administration’s statements.
The situation remains tense, with conflicting accounts from the administration and students. EastMojo will continue to monitor and report on developments as they unfold.
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