Harvard-affiliated Indian scholars urge defense of constitutional norms

The group, which includes students and researchers from schools including Harvard Law, Harvard Medical, and the Kennedy School, emphasized that constitutional principles and civil liberties require consistent protection rather than selective application. Their statement specifically highlighted the Election Commission, the Supreme Court, and the office of the Chief Justice as entities currently facing undue pressure. The signatories contended that while law enforcement and public officials should be subject to fair scrutiny, such oversight must rely on evidence and due process rather than abusive rhetoric.

Beyond institutional integrity, the statement addressed the unauthorized use of Harvard’s name in political campaigns, signaling a desire to distance the university’s academic reputation from partisan agendas. The contributors—who include individuals such as AK Raghawan, Abhishek M, and Adhitya Srinivasan—asserted that the dignity of public offices must remain paramount. They concluded by calling for a renewed commitment to justice and democratic stability, urging that the pursuit of constitutional values be prioritized over the prevailing politics of accusation.