Newdelhi: A diverse group of Harvard scholars and professionals expressed deep concern over what it described as attacks on India's constitutional institutions, including the Enforcement Directorate, Election Commission, Supreme Court, the office of the Chief Justice of India, and Parliament.

The group stated that while dissent remains a democratic right, the credibility of vital institutions should not be undermined through allegations that lack supporting evidence. They also raised concerns over reports indicating that Harvard University's name had been utilized without proper authorization to lend credibility to a political campaign.

In a joint statement focusing on constitutional responsibility, the rule of law, and institutional integrity, the scholars identified themselves as concerned citizens of India. They noted that language portraying the nation as being under siege, or characterizing constitutional authorities as compromised or dishonest, raises serious questions regarding deliberate attempts to erode public trust.

The statement gathered 44 signatures from lawyers, policymakers, civil servants, scientists, and academics. They explained that they released the address with a strong sense of responsibility, noting that silence cannot serve as an excuse for indifference during such times.

The signatories emphasized that while the actions of law enforcement agencies require fair scrutiny to maintain public order, sweeping accusations and abusive rhetoric cannot serve as a substitute for evidence, due process, or institutional accountability.

The statement highlighted that the dignity of public servants and their respective offices must be preserved. It stressed that the constitution, the rule of law, and civil liberties must be respected consistently rather than selectively.

The group reiterated that commitment must lie with the constitution rather than convenience, with justice rather than selective outrage, and with democratic institutions rather than the politics of accusation. Prominent signatories included Rajat Sethi, A K Raghawan, Abhigyan Satyam, Abhishek M, Adhitya Srinivasan, Aditya Kulshreshtha, Akash Sabarwal, Udaya Birje Raghunath, Priyambada Mishra, Sujeet Kumar, Richa Arya, and Rashmini Koparkar.

The scholars concluded by maintaining that institutional actions warrant fair examination, but any criticisms must remain rooted in concrete evidence and established legal processes while preserving respect for constitutional offices and civil liberties.