The University Grants Commission has asked universities and colleges in Maharashtra to encourage students to participate in programmes to celebrate the birth centenary of Dattaji Didolkar, the late founder member of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, student wing of Hindutva militant group Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.
In a circular dated November 21, the UGC said that Didolkar is an “inspiration” to the students of India.
“He was the founder of many social and other organisations,” read the UGC’s letter to state’s higher educational institutions.
“This year is his birth centenary year. In this regard, it is informed that from August 7, 2023, to August 7, 2024, various programmes have been planned to celebrate the birth centenary year of Shraddheya Dattaji Didolkar,” the letter stated.
The letter added, “The higher education institutions in the state of Maharashtra are requested to encourage the youth and students to participate in the programmes.”
According to Indian Express, the UGC’s request also referred to a letter by Union minister Nitin Gadkari to Union Education minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
