SUPPORT AND SPEAK FOR RAJEEV SIR

"The value of a man is reduced to his immediate identity and nearest possibility"

Don't know why these words rushed to my mind on hearing a horrible news, from my homeland. Is it because these words were jotted on the suicide note of Rohit Vemula, another victim of institutionalized murder. Maybe the situation is apt, especially the manner of victimization.

Arjun, a first year higher secondary student was caught cheating on his board examination. The natural response of the institute was to inform his parents and carry on with appropriate actions. Arjun's response was unfortunate and baneful. He decided to end his life at the end of a noose. Political parties, student's unions all came together, despite their differences to raise their concern and to demand justice. Sloganeering and Placards that justifies hate than justice, Press cameras that off focused on the issue. By far, a good PR event for many political wings.

On the center of all the commotion was a name familiar to me Mr.Rajeev. Rajeev sir is the vice principal of the Arjun's school. He has been accused responsibility of Arjun's death. Rajeev sir was the HOD of Chemistry dept when I was studying at the same school. A man whose guidance and care that I cherish to this day.

I was bewildered to hear this horrible incident being portrayed linking Rajeev sir, in the media, a perplexity many of my friends too shared. Rajeev sir, a man who dedicated his life to his students. A man who guided hundreds of students, including me. A teacher whose friendship everyone cherished. I asked around about the incident and understood that Rajeev sir might be the victim here. His whole career as an academic virtuoso shrunk to this unfortunate incident.

He stands, victimized, his value reduced to this immediate identity as an accused criminal.