The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in Mumbai has abruptly postponed its 86th Annual Convocation, which was originally scheduled for August 2.
Graduating students were informed via an email from the Registrar sent shortly after midnight on Thursday, just two days prior to the event, citing “unforeseen circumstances”.
Dignitaries and Security Concerns
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Dignitaries Scheduled: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant was set to attend as the chief guest, with Justice Ravindra Ghuge, Acting Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court, as the guest of honour.
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Reason for Postponement: Institute officials and security personnel cited safety concerns and intelligence inputs regarding potential student demonstrations linked to the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) movement targeting the visiting dignitaries.
Official Statement from TISS
In a subsequent media release on Friday evening, the institute administration clarified:
“The Institute assessed that the ceremony could not be held in a conducive environment and that proceeding as scheduled could have affected the wellbeing of students, faculty, staff, dignitaries, guests, and campus life.”
“The Institute had to take the difficult decision to postpone the Convocation in the best and long term interest of the Institute… The Institute stands with you at this difficult moment and also seeks your cooperation in carrying forward the legacy of the Institute with dignity and respect.”
Impact on Students & Relief Measures
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Student Frustration: The last-minute announcement sparked significant distress among hundreds of graduates and their families who had already arranged non-refundable flights, train tickets, and hotel stays.
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Financial Reimbursement: TISS acknowledged the hardship and stated that requests for financial assistance or reimbursement due to travel cancellations will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
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Certificates & Next Steps: A rescheduled date for the convocation will be announced shortly. In the interim, provisional certificates and academic transcripts will be issued to students who require them immediately.
