HT Correspondent
AGARTALA, Aug 6: The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) Tripura University Unit has called for the immediate suspension of Augustine Zimik, an Assistant Professor at Tripura University. The student organization accuses Zimik of engaging in unauthorized religious conversion activities on campus, in collaboration with the Union of Evangelical Students of India (UESI).
In a press release, ABVP expressed deep concern and strong condemnation of Zimik’s recent actions. The organization alleges that since his recruitment in 2016, Zimik has blatantly violated university norms by participating in religious conversion efforts.
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On August 3, 2024, an event titled “TU-EU Fellowship” was held, during which Zimik, under the alias “Bro Augustine,” allegedly attempted to convert students to Christianity without the required permission from university authorities. The event, conducted in collaboration with UESI, was said to be a clear breach of the secular principles upheld by the university.
The ABVP claims that Zimik falsely asserted he had obtained approval from the Vice-Chancellor, which was later denied by the Vice-Chancellor. The organization further accused Zimik of violating the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964, and using university platforms over the past year to promote his religious agenda. According to ABVP, these actions have created divisions and discomfort among students of various faiths, contradicting the university’s values of equality and respect.
The press release also noted that Zimik has been covertly operating for three years, allegedly expanding his influence and misusing university resources, such as the ‘Open Theatre,’ for programs focused on religious conversion. The ABVP vehemently condemned Zimik’s actions and demanded his immediate suspension. They urged the university administration to act swiftly and decisively to maintain the integrity and secular nature of the campus.
The student organisation called for a thorough investigation into Zimik’s activities and appropriate disciplinary action. They appealed to the Vice-Chancellor and other relevant authorities to ensure the campus remains a safe and respectful environment for students of all backgrounds. The ABVP emphasised the importance of upholding the university’s secular fabric and demanded accountability and justice in this matter.
