New Delhi (Agency): A controversy has erupted after Dr. Laxmidhar Behera, the director of the Indian Institute of Technology in Mandi, linked natural disasters like landslides and cloudbursts to meat-eating. The Communist Party of India (Marxist), known as CPI (M), has asked for Behera’s resignation and an “unconditional apology” for his comments.
The director recently told students to pledge not to eat meat. He claimed that the natural disasters in Himachal Pradesh are happening because of “cruelty on animals” due to meat consumption. His comments sparked sharp reactions.
CPI (M) state secretary Onkar Shad wrote a letter to Behera, saying his views on meat-eating prove “beyond doubt that there is no guarantee that one being in an elite technology institute has a scientific vision.” Shad accused Behera of “unprofessional conduct” for pushing personal views on students. A copy of the letter was sent to a Union minister and the Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister as well.
Behera’s statements have drawn criticism for overlooking other potential causes of natural disasters. In his letter, Shad asked why large-scale natural disasters didn’t occur “for centuries” if people in Himachal Pradesh have been eating meat “for ages.” The director is criticized for ignoring factors like climate change, unplanned growth, and human activities that damage the environment.
The letter also points out that attacking people’s food habits and cultural values is an “insult” to the residents of the state. It demands an apology to the 80 lakh people of Himachal Pradesh for his comments.
The situation brings up bigger questions about the role of educators in shaping public opinion. Should a person in such a high position use their platform to spread personal beliefs, especially if they contradict scientific understanding?
CPI (M)’s Shad also questioned whether Behera would stop projects focused on natural disasters and return grant money, given his “unscientific views.”