Episode notes
Academic freedom across South Asia is under growing pressure, narrowing the spaces in which scholars, students, and public intellectuals can research, teach, debate, and speak openly. Universities, research centres, and think tanks are increasingly affected by political interference, censorship, harassment, funding pressures, punitive legislation, and — in some cases — arrest.
In association with the British Association of South Asian Studies (BASAS), Contemporary South Asia journal (Taylor & Francis), and the Contemporary South Asia Podcast, this event asks what it means to (re)claim space for academic freedom in South Asia. It will explore how scholars and students are resisting intimidation, sustaining critical inquiry, and building formal and informal networks of solidarity within the region and beyond. The discussion will also consider the role of the BASAS South Asian Studies Observatory of Academic Freedom (SASOAF) in documenting attacks, publicising cases, and supporting those affected.
Panellists
Dr Dhaneswar Bhoi University of Edinburgh
Prof Maya Tudor Oxford University
Dr Madura Rasaratnam St George’s, University of London
Dr Laraib Niaz University of Cambridge
Prof Christophe Jaffrelot KCL
Prof Jeevan Sharma University of Edinburgh
Prof Pritam Singh Oxford Brookes
Dr Ashraf Hoque UCL