“TISS Postpones Convocation Days Before Ceremony Amid Security Concerns Over Possible Protests”
Mumbai: Hundreds of graduating students at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) were left disappointed after the institute abruptly postponed its 86th annual convocation just two days before it was scheduled to take place.
The convocation, which was set for August 2, was expected to be attended by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant as the chief guest and Acting Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court Ravindra Ghuge as the guest of honour. However, students received an email from the Registrar shortly after midnight on Thursday informing them that the event had been postponed due to “unforeseen circumstances.”
According to institute officials and student representatives, the decision was taken following security concerns and intelligence inputs suggesting that protests could take place on campus during the ceremony. The administration reportedly feared demonstrations linked to the Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) movement might disrupt the event and affect the safety of those attending.
In an official statement, TISS said it had carefully assessed the situation and concluded that the convocation could not be conducted in a peaceful and conducive environment. The institute stated that moving ahead with the ceremony under such circumstances could have affected the wellbeing of students, faculty members, staff, dignitaries, guests, and overall campus life.
Calling it a difficult but necessary decision, the administration said the postponement was made in the long-term interest of the institution while ensuring everyone’s safety. It also appealed to students for their understanding and cooperation in maintaining the institute’s values and legacy.
The last-minute announcement caused significant inconvenience for graduating students and their families, many of whom had already booked flights, train tickets and hotel accommodation to attend the milestone event.
Acknowledging the disruption, TISS expressed regret over the inconvenience and said requests for financial assistance due to travel-related losses would be considered on a case-by-case basis. The institute also assured students that a fresh date for the convocation would be announced soon and that provisional degree certificates would be issued immediately to those who need them for employment or higher education purposes.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
