Confronting Ahmadinejad in U.S.

Iranian President’s U.S visit is marked with derogatory show of what modern and civilized world is advocating. Columbia University President’s critical introduction was not the appropriate way to introduce a guest. In academics we were taught that universities invite dignitaries and prominent leaders so they share life experience so student’s canvass can be broadened. Turning the podium into heated debate about Zionist state was politically flavored. University president’s opening remarks were tantamount to such gatherings. Such seminars in educational institutes are supposed to be intellectual in nature and not formulated on fabricated media reports, which might be one-sided.

Was it ethical to confront a guest on wrong venue? Mr. Ahmadinejad’s coolness, firmness and assertive answers to all those questions were a befitting response to all nasty things thrown upon him by his hosts. University authorities failed to draw clear-cut distinction between criticism and insult. Free society does have few limits too.


Respecting invited guests should be part of syllabus at Columbia University. At the same time protocol team and media managers accompanying Iranian president should have worked out the basis of accepting this controversial invitation. Professors, students and other intelligentsia should develop the habit of reading beyond headlines. There is another beautiful world beyond political rhetoric. Advocating another country while confronting a third country at university seminars is not befitting for a University.

Apparently Columbia University has neither vendetta nor toe-to-toe with the Iranian regime; this is an aura of past politics which polluted the gathering. For those who are moving forward in political, social and intellectual life, tomorrow may bring the exciting option of new possibilities. It is only if you overcome your past that you will be able to feel radiance of tomorrow’s sun. Like every experience in life, politically too, we should learn from the past and put it behind us.