Controversy Brews Over Unconventional Research Method
Delhi University's Lakshmibai College has recently found itself at the center of a heated debate following an unusual research method initiated by Principal Pratyush Vatsala. She was filmed applying a mixture containing cow dung on the classroom walls—an effort, she claimed, aimed at studying cultural practices and their potential benefits in modern times. The video of this experiment quickly went viral, igniting opinions ranging from disbelief to outright anger.
Among the loudest voices of dissent was that of Ronak Khatri, the president of the Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU). Khatri, along with several other protesting students, staged a dramatic retaliation on April 15, 2025, by smearing cow dung on the walls of the principal's office and washroom. His rationale was clear: if students had to endure the unconventional classroom setup, so should the principal experience its effects first-hand.
Debates on Ethics and Student Consent
One of the main criticisms levied by Khatri was the lack of student consent. He described the experiment as 'absurd and unscientific,' questioning both its relevance and implementation in an academic environment. Khatri argued that such initiatives should not proceed without the explicit agreement of those directly affected—i.e., the students themselves.
In response, Principal Vatsala defended her actions, emphasizing that the experiment was part of a broader, faculty-led initiative exploring eco-friendly methods for temperature regulation. She highlighted that the mixture used wasn't raw cow dung but a prepared substance intended to improve the learning environment during extreme weather conditions.
Yet, the incident did not stop there. The principal had initially shared the experimental process in a teachers' group, signaling a genuine attempt to introduce sustainable practices. However, the public reaction underscored the experiment's controversial nature when conducted in an uncontrolled setting like a classroom.
Delhi University's Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh further stirred the pot by voicing his concerns. He suggested that while innovative research is pivotal, conducting such trials should ideally happen in a controlled environment, away from the public eye.
Adding to the chorus of criticism, NSUI president Varun Choudhary accused the principal of distracting from pressing student issues, such as the need for improved scholarships and infrastructure. According to him, the focus should remain on tangible improvements in student welfare rather than experimental forays into ancient practices.
As the debate rages on, it raises essential questions about the nature of scientific experiments conducted within educational institutions. How far can traditional practices go in blending with modern educational settings? Should student consent always be a prerequisite when implementing new methods impacting their environment? The university administration has yet to officially comment, leaving much to be discussed in India's educational and cultural circles.