An uproar was recently caused by the question " Do you find any similarities between Fascism/ Nazism and Hindu right wing (Hindutva), elaborate with argument." which appeared in the political science question paper of a private university in UP. This became a matter of heated public debate and apparently offended people from the ruling establishment. The supposedly neutral University Grants Commission jumped into the fray claiming that the question goes against the "ethos and spirit of our country which is known for it's inclusivity and homogeneity." It is difficult to understand how this question could foment 'social discord in society' as claimed by the authorities ; it was addressed to students taking exams and not broadcast on a public platform .Given the way the goons of the ruling party (mis)conduct themselves , there is a distinct fear of them unleashing violence on the academics of the university. The poor professor who had set the question paper was also suspended. Next we would see the rulers taking offence to even the things we think, such is the climate of fear. If this is not fascism, then we don't know what is.
