IDP Students Accuse MU Guest Lecturer of Discrimination; Faculty Refute Allegations

Students from the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) community at Manipur University have submitted a memorandum to the Vice-Chancellor demanding the removal of a guest lecturer from the Department of Vocational Studies and Skill Development (DVSSD). The students alleged that a guest lecturer had engaged in acts of discrimination and hostile treatment towards IDP students.

During a press conference held at the Manipur Press Club, members of the IDP Students’ Welfare Association accused the lecturer of making “discriminatory and discouraging remarks” toward IDP students, which they said had seriously affected their confidence and academic progress. They also claimed that the lecturer graded IDP students unfairly and discouraged them from participating in departmental activities.

The association appealed to the university administration for prompt intervention, asserting that such conduct went against the institution’s principles of equality and inclusion. They warned that the lecturer’s continued presence could demoralize displaced and marginalized students. The memorandum concluded by calling for justice and the restoration of an inclusive and respectful learning environment.

Meanwhile, guest lecturers of the DVSSD department have denied the allegations of discrimination and misconduct. In a joint statement, they clarified that the accusations surfaced after IDP students locked the Head of Department’s room for the second time in protest against the conduct of a visiting faculty member.

The lecturers acknowledged the sensitivity of the issue, noting that it followed tensions related to the admission of an IDP student into the 1st Semester M.Voc (Tourism and Hospitality Management) programme. However, they rejected claims of intentional bias or mistreatment and reaffirmed their commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and academic integrity in all departmental matters.