IIT Roorkee has issued an official statement after a video of a student’s dance performance from its cultural fest Thomso went viral, drawing sharp criticism online. The institute said that the content being circulated was misleading and aimed at damaging its reputation.

“It has come to our notice that misleading content is being circulated on social media with the intent to tarnish the reputation of the Institute. IIT Roorkee strongly disapproves of such actions,” the statement read.

It further warned that the institute would not hesitate to take legal action. “The Institute cautions that it reserves the right to initiate FIRS and pursue legal proceedings against any individual or group involved in spreading defamatory or false information,” it added.

Video from 2023 resurfaces

Reports suggest the viral clip is not recent but from 2023, when the dance was performed during the institute’s annual cultural festival. 

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Despite its age, the video resurfaced and spread rapidly on social media this week, prompting criticism over the nature of the performance and the attire of the student.

Social media criticism intensifies

Many users labelled the performance as “obscene,” claiming it went against cultural values and tarnished the academic integrity of IITs. Critics argued that premier institutions should focus on academics and not allow such displays on stage.

An X (formerly Twitter) user wrote, “This is the condition of our country’s top colleges… in the name of creativity, they only make students perform vulgar dances. Students crack JEE and go to IITs just to see this… Shameless! education system!”

Another post read, “Shame on educational institutions that allow such degrading dance performances on stages. Colleges are for learning, not cheap entertainment that destroys values and culture.”

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Defenders call it cultural expression

While criticism dominated the debate, some users defended the student’s performance, calling it a form of expression.

One user wrote, “What’s wrong in this dance of IIT Roorkee girl? Western Dance is also anti-national now in this country India? She worked hard to clear IIT, the hectic schedule of studying and if she is performing for fun then what’s wrong?”