Why Sanjeev Bikhchandani’s Voice Matters Today
What happens when a successful tech entrepreneur enters the world of education? Sanjeev Bikhchandani, one of India’s most respected startup pioneers, didn’t stop after revolutionizing job search with Naukri.com. He went on to co-create Ashoka University, a prestigious liberal arts institution.
But recent debates surrounding freedom of expression in academia have brought his views into the spotlight. In this article, we dive deep into Sanjeev Bikhchandani’s life, achievements, values, and why his recent comments matter in today’s India.
Who is Sanjeev Bikhchandani?
Early Life and Education
- Born in 1963 in Delhi, India
- Graduated in Economics from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University
- Earned his MBA from IIM Ahmedabad
From a strong academic background, Sanjeev began his career in marketing but soon realized he wanted to build something of his own.
Naukri.com: Building India’s First Job Portal
In 1997, at a time when the internet was just entering Indian households, Sanjeev Bikhchandani launched Naukri.com, an online job listing platform. It was a bold move but it paid off.
Why Naukri.com Was Revolutionary:
- Gave job seekers a free and open platform
- Empowered HR teams to connect with relevant talent faster
- Created trust and value in a digital ecosystem that was still new
Soon, Naukri.com became India’s largest online job portal, and Sanjeev’s company Info Edge expanded into other verticals like:
- 99acres.com (real estate)
- Jeevansathi.com (matrimonial)
- Shiksha.com (education guidance)
Ashoka University: A Vision for Liberal Arts in India
Sanjeev Bikhchandani didn’t stop with business success. Along with other philanthropists, he co-founded Ashoka University, aiming to:
- Promote critical thinking
- Offer interdisciplinary learning
- Create global leaders with social responsibility
Ashoka became a hub for some of India’s best minds students and faculty alike.
Recent Controversy: Freedom of Expression vs Institutional Role
In 2024, a major issue emerged when Ashoka University faculty member Ali Khan Mahmudabad was arrested over a post on X (formerly Twitter).
This incident sparked debates about:
- Academic freedom
- Student and faculty activism
- The role of private universities in political discourse
Bikhchandani’s Stand
Sanjeev Bikhchandani clarified in internal communication that:
“Activism and universities are not joined at the hip. There needs to be a boundary between institutional roles and individual beliefs.”
He argued that while freedom of speech is vital, universities should focus primarily on their core academic mission, and not become political arenas.
This led to internal discussions among Ashoka trustees about possibly stepping down, reflecting the seriousness of the issue. (Source)
Differing Views and Public Discourse
Critics Say:
- Universities must encourage freedom of thought, even when it includes political viewpoints
- Limiting activism might lead to self-censorship
- The role of a liberal arts university is to allow questioning of societal norms
Supporters Argue:
- Academic institutions should avoid being politically charged
- A structured policy is needed to balance expression with institutional neutrality
- Activism should be individual, not institutional
Sanjeev Bikhchandani’s Contributions Beyond Business
Besides Naukri.com and Ashoka, Sanjeev has also:
- Invested in top Indian startups like Zomato and PolicyBazaar
- Received the Padma Shri in 2020 for contributions to trade and industry
- Served as a role model for India’s youth, proving that innovation and values can coexist
FAQs About Sanjeev Bikhchandani
Q1. What is Sanjeev Bikhchandani known for?
He is the founder of Naukri.com and co-founder of Ashoka University, known for transforming India’s online job space and promoting liberal arts education.
Q2. What are his views on activism in universities?
He believes in freedom of expression but feels that institutions should maintain focus on academics, not political activism.
Q3. Why is Ashoka University in the news?
The arrest of a professor for a social media post raised questions about academic freedom and institutional response.
Q4. Has he left Ashoka University?
No, but he acknowledged discussing resignation with other trustees due to growing challenges.
Q5. Is Sanjeev Bikhchandani active in investing?
Yes, he’s a prominent angel investor in Indian startups like Zomato, PolicyBazaar, and more.
Final Thoughts: Innovation with Integrity
Sanjeev Bikhchandani stands out not just as a business leader but as someone who tries to blend entrepreneurial innovation with educational responsibility. While his views may not align with everyone, they open the door for necessary conversations around academic ethics, freedom, and governance.
As India’s educational institutions evolve, voices like his play a crucial role in shaping the future not just of universities, but of society as a whole.
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