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Cambridge Chancellor calls death of ex-professor Jason Arday a 'racist witch hunt'
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The death of former Cambridge University professor Jason Arday, found dead in his London apartment at age 41, has reignited debate over public suspicion and academic scrutiny. Arday, who in 2023 became Cambridge's youngest Black professor, resigned days before his death amid plagiarism allegations and questions about his life story. Cambridge Chancellor Lord Chris Smith of Finsbury told the BBC that while plagiarism allegations must be investigated, one must refuse to participate in a 'racist witch hunt' against a particular scientist. The university administration warns against premature judgments. A vigil is planned for Monday at Trafalgar Square in London, following a Sunday vigil in Cambridge attended by over 200 people. Arday denied all allegations before his death.
Source report
The 41-year-old sociologist Jason Arday, once celebrated as the youngest Black professor in the history of Cambridge University and who resigned a few days ago, was found dead in his apartment, according to the British "Telegraph."
The death of former Cambridge professor Jason Arday has reignited debate about how individuals under public suspicion are treated. The university leadership has warned against prejudgment.
Chancellor's Remarks
Following the death of former Cambridge professor Jason Arday, the university's chancellor spoke of a "racist witch hunt" against the 41-year-old in recent weeks. Arday had recently resigned from his position at the world-renowned institution amid plagiarism allegations. On Friday, he was found lifeless in London.
Plagiarism allegations against any scientist must be thoroughly investigated, Chancellor Lord Chris Smith of Finsbury told the BBC. "At the same time, one must refuse to participate in a racist witch hunt against a particular scientist."
Background
In 2023, Arday became the youngest Black professor in the history of Cambridge University. His appointment was celebrated as a progressive milestone. However, in recent weeks, the academic's image began to crack. In addition to plagiarism allegations, the credibility of parts of his life story was questioned. Arday denied the allegations but eventually resigned from his post after widespread public criticism.
Vigils Planned
According to the PA news agency, a vigil for Arday is planned for Monday evening at Trafalgar Square in central London. On Sunday, more than 200 people had already attended a vigil in Cambridge.
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Part of this Story
Cambridge Professor Jason Arday Resigns Amid Plagiarism and Fraud Allegations