TISS says students not involved in Parliament march; denies association with political activities

NEW DELHI: The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) has clarified that its students were not involved in the Parliament march organised by the United Students of India. The institute urged the media and public to stop spreading rumours about its involvement in political matters.

TISS statement came after stories on TISS students participating in the protest against the National Education Policy (NEP) and other issues. The Progressive Students’ Forum of the institute had said in a social media post that it will be participating in the march scheduled for January 12.

“TISS clarifies its non-involvement of its students in Parliament march organised by the United Students of India on 12th January 2024. The institute wishes to address recent speculations and rumours suggesting its involvement with political miscreants. The institute categorically denies any association with political activities and affirms its steadfast committment to maintaining a neutral and apolitical stance,” the institute said in an official statement.

TISS said that it is a leading higher education institute and strives to be a world-class university offering knowledge and values to students along with a learning experience in the field of social sciences, management sciences, and other areas.

The institute iterated that it has always given priority to academic excellence, ethical values, and community service. It focuses on providing quality education, encouraging intellectual growth, and contributing positively to the society. The institute does not endorse or engage in any form of political activities which may compromise its commitment to impartiality or integrity, it said.

The institute further clarified that it has a strict code of conduct and said that any assertions suggesting otherwise lack validity. It encouraged “responsible” journalism and fact-checking for accurate reporting on such matters.

“We urge the media and the public to rely on verified information and refrain from spreading baseless rumours about our institution’s involvement in politicial matters. TISS is committed to maintaining a reputation of integrity and transparency in all its endeavours,” TISS stated.