Allahabad HC asks BHU to reinstate Magsaysay awardee Prof. Sandeep Pandey before July 13th; Issues contempt notice

The Allahabad High Court, on a contempt petition filed by Magsaysay-awardee Professor Sandeep Pandey, issued notice to Banaras Hindu University and IIT-BHU directing them to comply with its earlier order and reinstate him.

One month ago, the High Court has quashed the resolution of Banaras Hindu University terminating the contract of Magsaysay award winner Prof. Sandeep Pandey as Visiting Professor alleging activities against National Interest.The court had said that the decision by the University to terminate his contract is not a termination simplicitor, but rather a punitive order and such an order cannot be issued ex-parte without conducting proper enquiry in the matter, as was done in his case

The Court had further remarked “A legitimate right of freedom of speech and expression including fair criticism is not to be throttled. No responsible person in democracy could incite the people to disobey the rule of law duly enacted, but situations may arise where responsible persons may feel that it is their duty to criticise the subject and invite the people to come for discussion on subject.”

The court asked the University to reinstate Mr. Pandey before July 13.His contract expires on July 31.