Northeast Desk, 5th August: The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) unit of Tripura University has called for the immediate suspension of Augustine Zimik, an Assistant Professor, accusing him of engaging in religious conversion activities on campus in collaboration with the Union of Evangelical Students of India (UESI).
In a strongly worded press release, ABVP expressed deep concern and condemnation of Zimik’s alleged conduct. The statement highlighted that Augustine Zimik, recruited in 2016, has been actively involved in religious conversion activities, violating university norms and secular principles.
“On August 3, 2024, an event named ‘TU-EU Fellowship’ was held featuring Augustine, who presented himself under the alias ‘Bro Augustine.’ The programme, conducted without requisite permissions from university authorities, was a blatant attempt to convert students to Christianity,” the press release stated. The ABVP claimed that Zimik falsely asserted he had obtained the vice chancellor’s approval, which was later unequivocally refuted by the vice chancellor himself.
The ABVP further accused Zimik of deceitful behavior, violating university regulations and the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964. They asserted that for the past year, Zimik has exploited university platforms to further his religious agenda, causing division and discomfort among students of various faiths and undermining the university’s commitment to an inclusive and secular environment.
“His continued association with UESI, an organization openly focused on converting students, is unacceptable and intolerable,” the press release continued. It also alleged that Zimik has covertly operated for three years, progressively expanding his influence and misusing university resources, such as the ‘Open Theatre,’ to host conversion-centric programmes.
The ABVP vehemently condemned Zimik’s actions and called for his immediate suspension. They urged the university administration to act swiftly and decisively to preserve the integrity and secular nature of the educational environment.
“Faculty members are strictly prohibited from engaging in such activities without proper authorization, and Zimik’s actions represent a blatant disregard for these regulations. We urge the university administration to conduct a thorough investigation into Zimik’s activities and to take appropriate disciplinary action,” the press release demanded.
The ABVP implored the Vice-Chancellor and all concerned authorities to act decisively, stressing that the issue transcends procedural violations and is crucial for ensuring that the campus remains a place where students from all backgrounds feel safe and respected.
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