Ashoka University row: Economics dept expresses gratitude for extending solidarity to Sabyasachi Das

New Delhi, Aug 20 (IANS) The Department of Economics of the Haryana-based Ashoka University has expressed its gratitude to all the departments of the varsity for extending their support to assistant professor Sabyasachi Das.

Das, who was in the Department of Economics, resigned from the university after his paper suggesting voter manipulation in 2019 elections sparked a controversy. Later, professor Pulapre Balakrishnan resigned in protest over acceptance of resignation of Das.

Several departments of the varsity including Economics, Sociology and Anthropology and Political Science have extended their solidarity to Das, demanding to reinstate him immediately.

"We thank all departments who issued statements in solidarity with the demands in our open letter. We have had meetings with the GB members and the VC and have been assured that a resolution is underway. We hope that our combined efforts yield favourable outcomes," the Department of Economics wrote on X (formerly twitter).

The department further said, "The welfare of students is of utmost priority to the Economics department. Therefore, teaching at no point will be disrupted. While we carry on with our academic responsibilities, we reserve the right to protest in other ways."

As many 320 economists from 91 universities across country have so far extend their support to Das, demanding the varsity to immediately reinstate him.