VC apologizes, removes teachers over ‘terrorist’ tag for freedom fighters in Vidyasagar University exam

A controversy has emerged after Vidyasagar University’s History (Honours) sixth-semester question paper referred to Indian revolutionaries of the 1930s as “terrorists.” The question, part of the Modern Nationalism in India paper, used the word in context to youths involved in anti-British actions during the freedom movement. Among them was Hemchandra Ghosh, whose name appeared in a question about the assassination of a British officer.

Vice Chancellor Deepak Kar responded to the backlash by issuing an apology and describing the usage of the word “terrorist” as an “unintentional mistake.” He confirmed that the university has removed the two teachers responsible for preparing the question paper. An internal inquiry has been ordered to look into the matter and prevent such issues in the future.

The question referred to the 1931 assassination of Midnapore District Magistrate James Paddy, who was shot dead by members of the Bengal Volunteers. The mission was led by Hemchandra Ghosh and executed by Bimal Dasgupta and Jyotijivan Ghosh during a public exhibition at Midnapore Collegiate School. Both revolutionaries escaped after the shooting and avoided arrest in that case.

Further British officials — including Magistrates Robert Douglas and BEJ Burge — were also later targeted and killed by members of the same revolutionary group. These incidents were mentioned in the question paper, but the use of the term “terrorist” triggered strong criticism for mischaracterizing those involved in the Indian independence movement.

The university administration has confirmed that it is reviewing the academic vetting system to ensure historical terminology is used accurately and sensitively in future examinations. The matter remains under investigation by the university’s internal committee.