Mumbai University Professor Called 'Urban Naxal' in Senate, Sparks Academic Outcry

During a Mumbai University senate meeting, Professor Deepak Pawar was labeled an 'urban naxal' by BJP senator Sheetal Devrukhkar-Sheth, sparking criticism from academics, activists, and the Kumar Ketkar Panel. The panel condemned the remark as a politically motivated attempt to silence dissent and demanded an apology and protection of academic freedom. The university clarified that disciplinary actions require proper procedures, while calls were made to uphold open debate and prevent punitive measures against Pawar.