IIT Kanpur’s MoU with ISKCON for student well-being sparks row; institute deletes post

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has sparked controversy by deleting a post announcing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) to conduct voluntary student well-being programs. The two-year agreement allows ISKCON to offer certified courses on topics such as self-management, wellness, and stress management, with participation entirely voluntary.

However, the collaboration has drawn criticism from students, alumni, and social media users who question the involvement of a religious organization in campus initiatives. IIT Kanpur Director Professor Manindra Agrawal defended the MoU, stating that it was initiated by the students' body and that the institute is open to accepting help from any outside organization.

The controversy highlights ongoing debates about student well-being and mental health in IIT campuses, following a recent student death at IIT Delhi that has renewed concerns over support systems.

Brief written by urgent.news from The Indian Express's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.