JNU cancels seminars with Iranian, Palestinian, and Lebanese ambassadors

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has cancelled three scheduled seminars featuring the Iranian, Palestinian, and Lebanese Ambassadors to India, citing “unavoidable circumstances.” The events were intended to address the ongoing violence in West Asia and were organised by the Centre for West Asian Studies within the university’s School of International Studies (SIS).

The cancellation was announced just hours before the Iranian Ambassador, Iraj Elahi, was set to speak at a seminar titled “How Iran sees the recent developments in West Asia.” Seminar coordinator Sima Baidya informed students via email about the cancellation. In addition, the university has also cancelled a seminar with Palestinian Ambassador Adnan Abu Al-Haija, which is planned for November 7, and another with Lebanese Ambassador Rabie Narsh, which is scheduled for November 14.

Sources from both the Iranian and Lebanese embassies indicated that the decision to cancel the events originated from the university itself. Faculty members reportedly raised concerns about potential protests on campus, given the polarising nature of the topics to be discussed.

The seminars aimed to provide insights into the perspectives of various West Asian countries in the context of current geopolitical tensions. However, faculty concerns about the university environment played a significant role in the decision to call off the events. A university source noted the heightened sensitivities surrounding discussions of this nature, suggesting that the charged global atmosphere could lead to easily inflamed sentiments among students.

In a communication sent to all chairpersons of SIS Centres, SIS Dean Amitabh Mattoo emphasised the importance of obtaining the Dean's approval before inviting diplomats to public events. He underscored the need for proper protocols to be followed when hosting high-profile visitors, particularly at the ambassadorial level while reiterating the commitment of SIS to uphold academic freedom and integrity.

The chairperson of the Centre for West Asian Studies, Sameena Hameed, clarified that the Iranian Ambassador’s seminar had been postponed due to last-minute organisation, and the other two seminars were never officially scheduled. She assured that these ambassadors have a long-standing relationship with the university and expressed hope that they would continue to engage with students in the future.