The question about ‘atrocities against Muslims’ in a controversial test paper leads to the suspension of a Jamia professor

A professor at Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) in Delhi has been suspended following a controversy and outrage on social media over a question he set for a semester examination. Authorities said the university has also constituted an inquiry committee to investigate the matter. The controversy revolves around a 15-mark question in the “Social Problems in India” paper of the BA (Honours) Social Work first-semester examination, which was held earlier this week.

What is the controversy about the question?
The question asked students to “discuss the atrocities against Muslim minorities in India, giving appropriate examples.” The question paper was set by Professor Virendra Balaji Shahare. Following complaints, the university said it has taken the faculty member’s negligence and irresponsibility “seriously.”

According to media reports, a university official said that a committee has been formed to investigate the matter. The professor concerned has been suspended until the committee submits its report. The official further added that this step was taken to uphold academic responsibility and institutional discipline.

Signed by the Acting Registrar
An order signed by the Acting Registrar, C.A. Sheikh Safiullah, and widely circulated on social media, confirmed the suspension “until further orders.” The order also stated that “during the period of suspension, Professor Shahare’s headquarters will be New Delhi, and he shall not leave the headquarters without the prior permission of the competent authority.”

The same order also mentioned that a police FIR would be registered “as per rules.” However, university officials later clarified that there is currently no intention to file an FIR against the professor.