New Delhi- Congress veteran Sam Pitroda has sparked controversy after claiming his lecture at ‘IIT Ranchi’ was disrupted by hackers displaying pornography. The Centre swiftly fact-checked the statement, pointing out that no Indian Institute of Technology exists in Ranchi, only an Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT).
The Education Ministry issued a strong rebuttal, stating that IIIT Ranchi has no record of inviting Pitroda for a lecture, either in person or virtually. It called his allegations “baseless and reckless,” aimed at tarnishing the reputation of a premier institution. The ministry further warned of legal consequences for attempts to malign such institutes.
Clarification on the recent remarks made by Shri Sam Pitroda in his webcast
It has come to the notice that Shri Sam Pitroda shared a video on his “X” handle on 22nd Feb 2025. He made a statement in that video that he was speaking at the IIT Ranchi to several hundred students,…
— Ministry of Education (@EduMinOfIndia) February 26, 2025
Pitroda’s remarks, made during a February 22 podcast discussing free speech in democracy, have drawn criticism. The BJP has accused him of spreading misinformation, adding to a series of recent controversies involving him.
Last week, his statement advocating a shift in India’s approach towards China faced backlash, with the Congress distancing itself from his views. The party clarified that China remains India’s biggest strategic challenge.
Pitroda has previously been in the spotlight for controversial remarks on diversity, which led to his temporary removal as Congress’ overseas unit chief before being reinstated.
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