The Ministry of Education has categorically rejected and condemned the accusations leveled by Congress Overseas Chief Sam Pitroda, who alleged that his virtual engagement with students of "IIT Ranchi" was hacked, resulting in the display of objectionable material.
Taking to social media platform X, the Ministry made it clear that there is no such institution as "IIT Ranchi".
Ministry's Official Statement
In a statement on X, the Ministry of Education asserted:
"It has come to our knowledge that Sam Pitroda posted a video on his X handle on February 22, 2025, wherein he boasted about having addressed several hundred students at IIT Ranchi. He also complained that the session had been sabotaged by hacking, which made improper content flash on the screen."
The Ministry categorically rejected these allegations, asserting, "There is no IIT in Ranchi, rendering such allegations totally baseless and reflective of ignorance. Although Ranchi does have an Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), the institute has established that Sam Pitroda was never invited—physically or virtually—to address any seminar or conference."
IIT's Reputation Defended
The statement also claimed that such false representations seem to be a design to sully the reputation of the elite Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).
"IITs have a rich tradition of excellence, having produced many of the brightest minds of the nation. In contrast to those who issue unsubstantiated claims, the IIT brand is founded on the merit, hard work, and accomplishments of its students, faculty, and academic community," the Ministry reiterated.
Legal Ramifications for False Accusations
Furthermore, the Education Ministry also criticized Pitroda's statement and threatened legal ramifications for any effort to defame India's top institutions.
"The Ministry of Education strongly condemns this statement and reiterates that any effort to malign the image of IITs will face legal repercussions," the post concluded.
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