Calcutta University snubs Mamata govt's appeal, decides to not reschedule exams for TMC event

B.Com and BA LLB fourth semester examinations are due to be held on August 28, the date that coincides with the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP)'s foundation day.

CU Vice-Chancellor Shanta Datta Dey had earlier cleared that she won't reschedule the examinations even after the TMCP members protested demanding a change in the date.

After this, the West Bengal Higher Education Department had written to Datta Dey appealing for a rescheduling of the examinations.

Though she remained defiant to hold examinations, the V-C had called a syndicate meeting to take a final decision.

Following the syndicate meeting, Datta Dey on Monday announced the examinations will be held as per schedule.

Addressing a press conference, the V-C said, "We have arrived at the decision after a lot of confrontations. Note of dissent was given by three government representatives but the House unanimously decided to not reschedule examinations."

Datta Dey has accused Higher Education Council representative Om Prakash Mishra of making personal attacks on her during the meeting.

"Om Prakash Mishra had called me illegal V-C. The rants were befittingly countered by the Registrar," she claimed.

The Higher Education Department's letter which was sent to the V-C reads as quoted by The Telegraph, "I am directed to inform you that a number of representation from the students...have been received by the department for rescheduling the examinations scheduled on the 28th August, apprehending traffic disruptions as well as massive pressure on public transportation due to procession of the students on the foundation day of Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP) in Kolkata and facing difficulties in reaching the examination centres in time on August 28,"

Reacting to the letter, the V-C had earlier said speaking to ABP Ananda, "This is unprecedented and unexpected. I have received a government letter so I will call an emergency syndicate meeting where we will discuss the matter. I am not rescheduling the examination as of now."

"The government is working for the ruling party. If the party supremo had called off the TMCP foundation day celebration this year in view of multiple criminal activities that have surfaced in recent times, her image would have improved and she would have benefitted in the 2026 elections," she added.