Syed Ashraf Demands Immediate Arrest of PES Professor Muralidhar Deshpande; Warns of Private FIR if Home Ministry Remains Silent
Bengaluru – A professor at the prestigious PES University has been suspended and faces criminal charges after allegedly targeting a Muslim student with Islamophobic slurs and labeling him a “terrorist” during a live classroom session. The incident, which was captured on video and has since gone viral, has sparked a national debate over the safety of minority students in higher education and the perceived rise of hate speech in academic spaces.
The university administration confirmed the suspension of the faculty member, identified as Muralidhar Deshpande, after the footage showed him repeatedly badgering the student. Law enforcement authorities have moved swiftly, invoking provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for deliberate acts intended to outrage religious sentiments and assault.
A Classroom Turned Hostile
According to student testimonies and video evidence, the confrontation began during a standard lecture. Witnesses claim Professor Deshpande singled out the Muslim student, not only using the term “terrorist” multiple times but also allegedly blaming the community for global geopolitical conflicts, including the tensions between the United States and Iran.
Syed Ashraf, the former Political Secretary to the ex-Prime Minister, issued a scathing critique of the incident, framing it as a symptom of a deeper malaise.
“Why would a professor make such irrelevant and inflammatory comments about international wars while addressing a student in a classroom?” Ashraf questioned. “To tell a student that ‘Trump will come and take you all away’ is not just a slur; it is a threat that carries dark implications about our national sovereignty.”
Allegations of Foreign Influence and Treason
The rhetoric used by the professor—specifically the reference to President Donald Trump—has led some community leaders to call for an investigation that goes beyond mere workplace misconduct. Ashraf argued that the professor’s comments suggest a “traitorous” mindset, questioning whether such individuals are influenced by foreign agencies like the CIA to sow internal discord.
“The professor’s statement implies he is looking toward a foreign power to intervene in Indian domestic affairs,” Ashraf stated during a media briefing. “This makes him a traitor to the nation. We are demanding a full investigation into his affiliations. Is he working for a foreign agency to destabilize our social fabric?”
Demand for Legal Accountability
While PES University’s Vice-Chancellor has confirmed that an internal committee is investigating the matter and that the professor remains suspended, many feel these measures are insufficient. Critics are calling for an immediate dismissal and a formal arrest.
The incident has also placed the Karnataka state government under the microscope. Leaders have pointed to the state’s recent history with the “Halal” and “Hijab” controversies as evidence of a deteriorating environment for religious minorities.
“The Karnataka government is already infamous for these controversies,” Ashraf noted. “People from other states are now questioning if Karnataka remains peaceful. We are pleading with the government: do not remain silent while Muslims are oppressed and defamed in the very institutions meant to educate them.”
Ultimatum for the Home Ministry
The outcry has culminated in a direct challenge to the state’s leadership, including the Chief Minister and the Home Ministry. Advocates are demanding a suo motu case be registered within the week, citing a lack of proactive protection for marginalized students.
“If the professor is not arrested within seven days, I will personally file an FIR for treason at the Shivaji Nagar police station,” Ashraf warned. “We are calling on all Muslim leaders in Karnataka, regardless of political affiliation, to unite. This is no longer about one student; it is about the ongoing persecution of a community that is being systematically marginalized.”
As evidence collection continues, the university maintains that it will take further action based on the findings of its internal inquiry. However, for the student body and community activists, the case has become a litmus test for how India’s educational system handles the “virus of hate speech” within its walls.
