Dr. DEVADOSS PANDIAN writes ...

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September 15, 2009


Dear Sam,

I hope this note finds you well. Perhaps you may be surprised to hear from me. I happened to stumble upon a blog carrying a message thanking you for playing a critical role in the struggle to recapture the soul of The American College. I want to add my own gratitude and thanks to you and others for leading the battle against an unprecedented and unwise action by the Bishop. In the last several months I have received the news of the struggle rather sporadically from someone by name Dharumi. I don’t know whether Dharumi is a pseudonym or acronym for the struggle. I say sporadic because my computer screens out emails from “unrecognizable” sources. A month ago I had the opportunity to talk to Dinakaran Michael who gave a broad summary of the struggle and the heroic role played by both former and present faculty, staff, and students.

The online version of The Hindu, which I read everyday ritualistically, did not cover the events at all. However, it carried the terrific news of the final verdict of the Madurai Bench of Madras High Court, dismissing the case brought forth by the Bishop and his lieutenants, clearing the way for the duly appointed principal to assume office. Also The Hindu carried the 35-page court order which I was able to print and read, providing me a chronological description of what took place over a period of more than a year. I don’t know what the motivation behind the Bishop’s action was: personal gains or control of the College by the Diocese. Upholding the object of the College--liberal Christian Higher Education-- and witnessing for it, the College has a long-standing, rich tradition of independence, inclusiveness, a culture of inquiry, and a strong commitment to excellence. I hope this struggle has only strengthened our resolve to fulfill the object of the College.

Sam, if you could, please convey my heartfelt gratitude and thanks to all those who valiantly fought for justice.



Sincerely,

Devadoss Pandian