DIMAPUR, JULY 27 (MExN): A group of 32 academic based in different universities in India and abroad on Thursday issued a statement expressing solidarity and support with Professor Kham Khan Suan Hausing. Hausing is a professor of political science at the University of Hyderabad.
Hausing was summoned by the office of the chief judicial magistrate, Imphal East district court Ashem Tarunakumari Devi on July 6 after it took cognisance of complaints made against him by Manihar Moirangthem Singh, a member of the Meitei Tribes Union (MTU).
“Prof Hausing has conducted impeccable research on federalism, ethnic conflicts, nationalism, and aspects of civic life and inter-ethnic relations in Northeast India and political processes in India for over two decades now. He is a widely cited author who has published in some of the most reputable journals within the country and abroad. Moreover, he has mentored several generations of youth from the region, and has continued to inspire young researchers across India. His commitment to research is commendable, and he is a very respected member of the academic community,” the statement read.
Terming it as indeed most unfortunate that his views - based on considered opinion and professional investigations -- have been construed as criminal by individuals outside the academic community, the statement said, “While we believe that our research work has to engage with a non-academic audience, we are deeply troubled by the disproportionate and facetious response that his views have generated among a section of the wider public.”
“The filing of criminal complaints against academics who share their views in the public sphere sets a dangerous precedent. It paves the way for unwarranted censorship of speech, thought, and democratic exchange of views. As professionals who work and write about issues in Northeast India, we feel that such actions tantamount to the erosion of safe spaces for academic research. It will hamper the intellectual growth and exchange of ideas, not just among our peers, but also among the next generation of scholars.”
While reiterating its solidarity and support for Prof. Hausing, the statement called for an end to his harassment.
