The controversy over the dismissal of Delhi University assistant professor Dr Saripalli V. Ravikiran has deepened. The Federation of Central University Teachers’ Associations (FEDCUTA) has written to President Droupadi Murmu seeking her intervention in the matter. The federation described the university’s action as illegal, arbitrary and unjust, and appealed for the proceedings linked to the dismissal to be cancelled. The President is the Visitor of all central universities.
Ravikiran was an assistant professor of political science at Delhi University’s Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE). The university relieved him from service with immediate effect through an order issued on October 30, 2026. The order cited his unsatisfactory performance, work and conduct during the probation period as the basis for the action.
Questions raised over probation period
FEDCUTA has argued that Ravikiran’s maximum two-year probation period had ended on February 28, 2026. The federation has also questioned the validity of the order issued on February 7, 2025, extending his probation. It said that under the rules, the order should have been issued before the prescribed time. On this basis, the federation has described the dismissal process as contrary to service rules.
Study material became the reason for the dispute
The matter is also linked to self-learning material prepared for political science students. Objections had been raised to the content of the units “Understanding Ambedkar” and “Understanding Political Theory”. The inquiry committee had alleged negligence in preparing the material. Ravikiran, however, rejected the allegations, citing procedural flaws, excessive workload and lack of editorial support.
FEDCUTA has alleged that action was taken against the teacher because of academic views, and that the dismissal order did not mention the proceedings related to the inquiry and the show-cause notice. Describing it as an issue linked to academic freedom and accountability of universities, the federation has demanded Ravikiran’s reinstatement.
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