Social Activist :- "Sandeep Pandey"

Early Life and Education

Sandeep Pandey, born on July 22, 1965, laid the foundation for his impactful journey through academic excellence. He pursued a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley, following his Master's studies in manufacturing and computer science at Syracuse University.

Founding Asha for Education

During his academic pursuits, Pandey co-founded Asha for Education, a pivotal organization dedicated to educational reform. This initiative reflected his early commitment to social change and grassroots activism.

Establishing Asha Trust

Upon returning to India, Pandey established Asha Trust, a registered organization aimed at fostering educational initiatives nationwide. This marked the beginning of his efforts to empower communities through education.

Championing Grassroots Democracy

Pandey's passion for democratizing governance led to the establishment of Asha Parivar, focusing on grassroots democracy in Uttar Pradesh's Hardoi district. Through this initiative, he emphasized the importance of citizen participation and transparency in governance.

Leadership in People's Movements

As a leader in the National Alliance of People's Movements (NAPM), Pandey played a pivotal role in advocating for social justice and grassroots empowerment. His leadership has been instrumental in mobilizing communities and driving positive change.

Recognition and Awards

In recognition of his exceptional leadership and contributions to society, Pandey was honored with the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2002, often referred to as the 'Asian Nobel prize.'

Educational Philosophy and Advocacy

Pandey's vision of education revolves around empowerment through cooperation, challenging traditional notions of competition. He has been a staunch advocate for educational reform and inclusive learning environments.

Facing Challenges

Despite facing challenges, including the premature termination of his teaching contract, Pandey's dedication to social justice remains unwavering. His resilience and commitment continue to inspire others to strive for positive change.

In summary, Sandeep Pandey's journey embodies a relentless pursuit of social justice, grassroots empowerment, and educational reform. Through his leadership and advocacy, he has left an indelible mark on Indian society, inspiring generations to come.

Response to Dismissal from IIT-BHU: Sandeep Pandey Speaks Out
In the wake of my sudden termination from my position as a visiting faculty member at IIT-BHU Varanasi, I feel compelled to address the circumstances surrounding this decision. During a recent meeting of the Board of Governors, chaired by the Vice Chancellor of BHU, Prof. G.C. Tripathi, and Dean of Faculty Affairs, IIT-BHU, Prof. Dhananjay Pandey, both affiliated with RSS, played a decisive role in influencing the outcome.

Allegations against me include being labeled as a naxalite, accusations of presenting a banned documentary on the Nirbhaya case, and engaging in activities deemed anti-national.

I wish to clarify that while I may not adhere to naxalite ideology, I empathize with the causes they advocate for, albeit not necessarily their methods. Regarding the banned documentary, it was initially planned for screening during my Development Studies class in the 2014-15 academic year. However, this decision was retracted following intervention by the Chief Proctor of BHU and the S.O. of Lanka Police Station. Nevertheless, a meaningful discussion on the issue of violence against women in our society was conducted after viewing an alternative documentary.