University VC triggers storm with remarks

Arvind Dixit, the vicechancellor of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar University, is under fire for his remarks questioning the wisdom of the Rajputs in getting Jodhabai married to Mughal Emperor Akbar.

Estimated to have been born around 1542AD, some historical accounts say Jodhabai was offered in marriage to the emperor in 1562.

Dixit’s effigy was torched and angry protesters demanded his dismissal, although the vice-chancellor promptly apologised and clarified his statement in a press statement on Friday.

Members of the Akhil Bharatiya Kshtriya Mahasabha have slammed Dixit, accusing him of insulting the community that has a glorious past. Some Brahmin (higher caste) groups have also joined the chorus, demanding action against the VC.

On Balmiki Jayanti on Wednesday, Dixit had said: “Our role models should be those who refused to be converted to other religions, and not those who got Jodhabai married to Akbar, to save their empire.”

Local historians said this was a normal practice those days. The VC swiftly offered an apology and explained that he had been misquoted and misunderstood.