Academic discourse turns into a heated confrontation at Guru Ghasidas Central University as the VC orders a keynote speaker to leave.
BILASPUR — A national literary seminar at Guru Ghasidas Central University (GGU) descended into chaos on Wednesday after the Vice-Chancellor (VC), Prof. Alok Chakrawal, publicly insulted and evicted a prominent guest from the podium. The incident has sparked widespread outrage across the literary community, leading to a mass walkout by several invited scholars and writers.
The seminar, titled "Contemporary Hindi Short Stories: Changing Contexts of Life," was organized by the Hindi Department in collaboration with the Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, and featured experts from across the country.
छत्तीसगढ़ में गुरु घासीदस सेंट्रल यूनिवर्सिटी के वीसी ने मौजूदा समय के चर्चित हिंदी साहित्यकार मनोज रूपड़ा को कार्यक्रम से बाहर निकाला। pic.twitter.com/FAvvFroBnh
— Narendra Nath Mishra (@iamnarendranath) January 8, 2026
The Trigger: A Clash of Ego and Subject Matter
According to witnesses and viral video footage, the tension began when Prof. Chakrawal diverted from the literary theme of the seminar to discuss his personal achievements and administrative experiences.
The Request: Manoj Rupda, a highly regarded writer from Maharashtra, reportedly requested the VC to return to the core subject of the seminar to maintain the academic focus.
The Reaction: Visibly offended, the VC demanded Rupda’s name from the stage and ordered him to leave the premises immediately.
The Ultimatum: "Learn how to talk to a Vice-Chancellor," Prof. Chakrawal was heard saying. He further instructed organizers never to invite such guests to the university again.
Mass Boycott by Guests
The situation escalated when another guest attempted to intervene and urge restraint. The VC responded by ordering that guest to leave as well. Disgusted by the "undemocratic" and "arrogant" behavior of the university head, a large group of professors, litterateurs, and students walked out of the hall, leaving the event in disarray.
Why This Matters for GGU
The incident has caused significant damage to the reputation of Chhattisgarh’s only Central University. The Sahitya Akademi is a premier national institution, and such a public fallout during a collaborative event could jeopardize future academic partnerships.
The literary world has condemned the act, calling it an assault on the culture of dialogue and mutual respect essential to university environments.
