The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune removes a book by activist Umar Khalid from its library, citing the need to avoid misunderstanding or unrest. The book, based on Khalid’s PhD thesis, examines the history of Adivasi societies in Jharkhand under British rule.
The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune (IISER Pune) has taken action to remove a book by activist Umar Khalid from its library following reports that it had been added to the institution’s library. According to The Indian Express, the administration made this decision to 'avoid any misunderstanding or unrest'.
The book, 'Fractured Communities: Adivasi Histories and the Politics of Power', was published earlier this year and is based on Khalid’s PhD thesis at Jawaharlal Nehru University. It examines the history of Adivasi societies in Singhbhum region of Jharkhand under British rule.
The removal of the book followed a social media post by Gems of Indian Academia, which shared a photograph showing it as a new addition to the institute’s library. In response, Madabhushi Madan Gopal, chairperson of the institute’s board of governors, expressed shock over the matter and stated that action has been initiated against those responsible for the 'mischief'.
Umar Khalid has been in prison for more than six years without trial in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case.
The police had arrested Khalid in connection with the communal violence that broke out in North East Delhi in February 2020 between supporters of the contentious Citizenship Amendment Act and those opposing it. The violence had left 53 dead and hundreds injured. Most of those killed were Muslims.
Source:
Scroll.in
