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A major controversy has erupted at National Institute of Technology (NIT), Calicut, following the appointment of Dr. A Shaija as the dean of the institution. The uproar stems from a social media post she made last year, in which she praised Nathuram Godse, Mahatma Gandhi’s assassin, for "saving India."
What Led to the Controversy?
Who is Dr. A Shaija?
She is a professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at NIT Calicut.
On Mahatma Gandhi’s death anniversary (January 30, 2023), she commented "Proud of Godse for saving India" on a Facebook post.
The post was in response to an advocate’s comment that read, “Hindu Mahasabha activist Nathuram Godse, a hero of many in Bharat.”
Immediate Backlash & Police Case
She later deleted the comment, but screenshots went viral.
Following public outrage, Kozhikode City Police booked her under IPC Section 153 (Wantonly giving provocation, with intent to cause riot).
Despite the controversy, she has now been appointed as a dean, triggering fresh protests.
Political Reactions & Protests
Congress Opposes Shaija’s Appointment
The Congress has strongly opposed her appointment, calling for an agitation at NIT Calicut to demand its withdrawal.
"A professor who insulted Gandhiji is given a promotion. We will launch an agitation until her appointment is revoked," said Kozhikode Congress District President Praveen Kumar.
He also alleged that the "RSS agenda is being implemented" at institutes under the central government.
Left Parties Also Demand Her Removal
Various Left-affiliated organizations have joined the demand for her ouster from NIT Calicut.
Dr. Shaija’s Explanation
In her defense, Shaija claimed her comment was misinterpreted and not meant to glorify Gandhi’s assassination.
"I never wanted to appreciate the killing of Gandhiji. I had read Godse’s book Why I Killed Gandhi. Godse was also a freedom fighter. There is a lot of information in his book that people do not know," she said.
She further explained:
Her comment was based on Godse’s book and its "revelations".
Once she realized it was being distorted, she deleted it.
What Happens Next?
Congress and Left organizations are preparing for protests at NIT Calicut.
Calls for revoking her appointment are growing.
The central government and NIT administration have not yet responded to the demands.
