On April 12, 2025, a group of postgraduate sociology students submitted a formal complaint to Vice-Chancellor Dr. Suresh Gosavi, demanding an independent inquiry into Dr. Tambe’s conduct. The students accused her of:
Making caste-based derogatory remarks during lectures and public interactions
Ridiculing students’ clothing, lifestyle, and personal backgrounds
Delaying approvals for students under welfare schemes like "Earn and Learn"
Using terms such as “anti-intellectual,” “cheap,” and “rowdy” to describe scholarship recipients
Improperly maintaining attendance records and assigning substitute lectures without consent
Intimidating students who spoke out, causing psychological distress.
The complaint stemmed from a March 29 meeting attended by nearly 50 students, where these issues were discussed and documented. Students claim that the hostile academic environment has left many feeling mentally exhausted and marginalized.
The unrest has exposed a rift within the department:
Support for the HoD: Some students and faculty members have defended Dr. Tambe, arguing that the allegations are exaggerated or motivated by ulterior motives. They claim their signatures were used without consent in the complaint and that the minutes of the meeting did not include Tambe’s responses or the full context of the discussion.
Calls for Inquiry: The protesting students insist their grievances are genuine and demand a transparent, independent investigation. They have also asked for protection for whistleblowers and long-term measures to ensure a safe, inclusive environment.
This is not the first time Dr. Tambe has faced such accusations. In June 2023, a similar complaint was filed by 40 students, alleging caste bias and retaliatory behavior, but students claim no meaningful action was taken. The university administration, led by Vice-Chancellor Gosavi, has assured a thorough inquiry and reiterated its commitment to maintaining a safe and inclusive campus.
However, delays and perceived inaction have frustrated many students, with some former students alleging that the lack of administrative response has worsened the situation and eroded trust in the university’s redressal mechanisms.
The controversy has reignited debates about caste, privilege, and discrimination in higher education. Students from rural and marginalized backgrounds report feeling especially targeted, both academically and socially. The case has also highlighted the challenges universities face in balancing due process, faculty rights, and student welfare.
The Vice-Chancellor has promised to address the issue upon his return to Pune. Students are awaiting the formation of an independent committee to investigate the allegations. The university community and wider public are closely monitoring developments, as the outcome will set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.