Bilaspur, January 10: A national seminar at Guru Ghasidas Central University turned into a site of controversy this week after the Vice Chancellor, Alok Kumar Chakrawal, ordered renowned writer Manoj Rupda to leave the auditorium mid-session. The incident, captured on video and circulated widely on social media, has sparked a wave of condemnation from the literary community and political leaders, who describe the confrontation as an affront to artistic freedom and academic decorum.

The incident occurred on Wednesday during a seminar titled "Samkalin Hindi Kahani: Badalte Jeevan Sandarbh" (Contemporary Hindi Story: Changing Life Contexts), a joint initiative by the Sahitya Akademi and the university. Jabalpur Medical College Doctors Allegedly Served Food Cooked With Bathroom Tap Water, Viral Video Sparks Outrage.

GGU VC Kumar Chakrawal Asks Writer Manoj Rupda To Leave Seminar

Witness accounts and video footage indicate that while Vice Chancellor Chakrawal was delivering his address, he paused to ask Rupda, who was seated in the front row, if he was "getting bored." Rupda reportedly responded by suggesting the Vice Chancellor stick to the seminar's topic.

The remark appeared to anger Chakrawal, who then questioned who had invited the writer and stated that Rupda lacked the "sense" of how to address a Vice Chancellor. He subsequently ordered Rupda to leave the premises and instructed organizers not to invite him to future events. AMET University Conducts Its 15th Convocation Ceremony.

In the wake of the backlash, Vice Chancellor Chakrawal defended his actions, claiming his remarks have been "blown out of proportion." He alleged that Rupda had been dismissive and was frequently looking at his phone during the speech.

"I simply asked if everything was alright or if he was feeling bored," Chakrawal told reporters, adding that he has since faced a "barrage of abuse" on social media. He maintained that his suggestion for Rupda to leave was a response to the "disrespect shown to the platform."

Rupda, however, characterized the event as more than a personal grievance. "This protest is not merely against the VC as an individual, but against a toxic mindset and a pattern of behavior that is both negative and torturous toward the world of art and literature," he said. Rupda noted that he would have apologized if he felt his conduct was at fault, but he remains firm that his response was not disrespectful.

Widespread Condemnation

The incident has drawn criticism from across the political and cultural spectrum. Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel condemned the Vice Chancellor’s behavior, stating it "tarnishes the dignity" of the office.

Literary groups, including the Jan Sanskriti Manch, have held protests in cities like Raipur and Bilaspur, calling for Chakrawal’s removal. Mudit Mishra, president of the Manch’s Bilaspur unit, noted that the incident reflects a broader "lack of respect for literature, art, and culture" in the region.

Context and Background

Manoj Rupda is a distinguished figure in contemporary Hindi literature with deep roots in Chhattisgarh’s Durg-Bhilai region. His invitation to the seminar by the Sahitya Akademi—India’s national academy of letters—highlights his standing in the literary community.

As the university and local government face mounting pressure, the incident has reignited a debate regarding the power dynamics between administrative heads of academic institutions and the invited intellectuals who participate in their public forums.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 10, 2026 12:44 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).