Kolkata’s Presidency University has expelled two female students over alleged abusive remarks on a Swami Vivekananda poster.
Published: November 7, 2026, 3:58 PM IST
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Swami Vivekananda poster defaced: 2 female students expelled from Kolkata university over abusive remarks | image: X
Swami Vivekananda Poster Defaced: Presidency University in Kolkata has expelled two female students who allegedly wrote offensive comments on a poster featuring Swami VivekanandaThe students also made derogatory remarks about other organisations, a university official said on SaturdayThe university took the decision after receiving a report from an inquiry committee that examined CCTV footage and heard from various stakeholders.
Students Barred From Future Academic Activities
The university has barred both students from participating in further academic activitiesThe female students are barred from taking admission in the university to any future degree programme, PTI reported, citing an official.
University Condemns Poster Defacement
In a statement, the university said it has always upheld dignified academic discourse and debate on scientific and socio-political issues, adding that it would not tolerate abuse directed at thinkers, ideas or organisations.
The controversy began after the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) alleged that a poster carrying a photo of Swami Vivekananda, put up by the organisation on the university campus on October 13, was defaced with derogatory remarks.
ABVP Files Police Complaint, While SFI Denies Involvement
The ABVP subsequently lodged a police complaint seeking an impartial investigation and action against those responsibleIt also staged a protest outside the university gate.
Meanwhile, the Left-affiliated Students’ Federation of India (SFI) denied any involvement in the incident.
The organisation condemned the alleged defacement and said no Left organisation had initiated or participated in an act insulting Swami Vivekananda.
The SFI also said it did not intend to hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus and demanded an investigation based on CCTV footage, along with action against those found responsible.
The university has not disclosed the identities of the two expelled students.
