Udaipur varsity VC apologises for hailing Aurangzeb as ‘best administrator’
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The Vice Chancellor of Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Sunita Mishra, issued an apology on Wednesday after facing widespread backlash for describing Mughal emperor Aurangzeb as the “best administrator.”
In a video and written statement, Mishra apologised to Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, the people of Mewar, Rajasthan, and particularly the Rajput community.
“This land of Mewar is not just a geographical region, but a symbol of valor, self-respect, and sacrifice. It is this sacred land that gave birth to immortal heroes like Maharana Pratap and Prithviraj Chauhan, who remained steadfast in the defence of their motherland and religion even under the most difficult circumstances. Their glorious saga will always be a source of inspiration for all of us,” Mishra said.
She added, “In a recent speech at an international conference in Udaipur, I described Aurangzeb as a capable ruler. This deeply hurt the sentiments of Maharana Pratap’s followers and the Rajput community. This is my mistake. My intention was never to insult this immortal land of heroes or its great heroes. I wholeheartedly apologise to all the people of Mewar, Rajasthan, and especially the Rajput community for my mistake.”
Mishra further expressed her respect for the region, saying, “I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to work and serve on this land of Mewar, sanctified by the feet of Maharana Pratap. Respect and loyalty to this glorious land will always remain in my heart. Therefore, I once again request you to forgive me for any pain caused by my statement.”
The controversy began following Mishra’s speech at the ‘Indian Knowledge System: A Roadmap to Viksit Bharat 2047’ conference on September 12, where she had said that Aurangzeb “as an administrator, he is the best.” She had also equated Maharana Pratap and Prithviraj Chauhan with Akbar, citing historical perspectives on these rulers.
Members of Hindu organisations and ABVP activists stage protests demanding the Vice-Chancellor’s resignation over her Aurangzeb remarks.
Her remarks triggered intense protests on campus. Students reportedly locked her chamber for several hours, burned her effigy, smeared her photos with black ink, sat in protest demanding her boycott, and submitted letters to the Governor. Student organisations, including ABVP, NSUI, and some caste outfits, participated in the demonstrations demanding her resignation.
Deputy Chief Minister and Higher Education Minister Prem Chand Bairwa said, “It has come to my notice. We will get a factual investigation done and take action based on the report of the department and the District Collector.”