Pune univ wing drops ‘Voice of Devendra' contest circular
Savitribai Phule Pune University
(SPPU) issued on Aug 5 to all student volunteers to participate to the maximum extent in the 'Voice of Devendra', a state-level elocution competition, was withdrawn on Tuesday by its director Sadanand Bhosale.
The competition, according to the circular, is inspired by chief minister
Devendra Fadnavis
, and provides a platform to participants to connect with the concept of a 'Developed Maharashtra' and enhances their oratory skills.
Dayanand Shinde, state coordinator of 'Voice of Devendra' movement said the event will be held in Nashik on Aug 17. Participants have to send their entries online and the finalists will be chosen.
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Students affiliated to National Students' Union of India and University Students' Struggle Action Committee protested on Tuesday on SPPU's campus calling it a political agenda.
Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary Sushama Andhare and NCP (SP)'s Rohit Pawar too spoke against the circular. Pawar posted on his X account that the university has perhaps forgotten that it should not become part of a political agenda and should focus on improving academic quality and strengthening the voice of democracy rather than engaging in hero worship.
Bhosale said the university was not organising the contest but merely informing students about it.
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"We get proposals from organisations like Rotary Club, the police and others to popularise their contests or events such as tree plantation or other activities. Accordingly, we issue a circular stating the event and invite students to join voluntarily. Similarly, some Nashik-based organisations approached us with this contest, and we sent a letter so that students would know about it.
NSS students or others didn't need to attend.
The university was not involved in anything else. In light of the protests, we have withdrawn the circular," he added.
Protesting students alleged SPPU officials are acting under the influence of the governing party. he added. NSUI president, university chapter, Siddhant Jambhulkar, said the contest shifts focus from the state's progress to promoting a political leader.
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