Global Interfaith University and 21st Century University host joint Thesis Defense

On Saturday, February 21, 2026, Global Interfaith University and 21st Century Open University successfully hosted a joint Post-Doctoral Thesis Defense, highlighting a significant milestone in academic research on social issues in India. The event featured Dr. Samikshya Madhukullya from the Faculty of Humanities and International Relations, who presented her groundbreaking study titled “Media, Morality, Surveillance, and the Politics of Divorce in Contemporary India: Taboo, Gendered Blame, and the Cultural Construction of Fault.” The defense brought together scholars, students, and experts interested in media studies, gender politics, and societal change, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary research in understanding complex cultural phenomena.

Dr. Madhukullya’s research critically examines how media narratives and societal surveillance influence perceptions of divorce in India, a society deeply rooted in traditional moral values. Her analysis reveals that media representations often depict divorce as a moral failing, reinforcing societal taboos and stigmas. These portrayals contribute to the cultural construction of fault, especially targeting women, who are frequently blamed for marital breakdowns. The research uncovers how gendered blame is perpetuated through media discourse, legal frameworks, and social judgments, which serve to uphold conservative moral standards and social hierarchies. A key aspect of her study is the role of surveillance—both social and digital—in reinforcing these narratives. Constant monitoring and judgment create an environment where women, in particular, feel the pressure of societal expectations, often leading to self-censorship and internalized shame. Dr. Madhukullya’s findings shed light on the ways in which cultural mechanisms and media influence work together to maintain gendered stereotypes and inhibit social progress.

The thesis defense was enhanced by the presence of Professor Patricia Taiwo, a distinguished Professor of Medical Sociology at the University of Abuja, Nigeria, who served as the external advisor. Professor Taiwo’s insights and expertise in social and cultural dynamics enriched the discussion, providing valuable international perspectives on gender, morality, and social surveillance. Other members of the Thesis Evaluation Committee included Prof. Alexandru Manole, Dr. Nadezhda Fedko, Prof. Alina Borysova, Dr. Roberto Maurice, Prof. Ehi Eric Esoimeme, Prof. Emmanuel Ande Ivorgba, Associate Professor Anurag Hazarika and Associate Prof. Lawrence Abraham Onochie.

Throughout her presentation, Dr. Madhukullya emphasized how traditional notions of morality, shame, and social control shape the discourse around divorce. Her work demonstrates that media and societal institutions collaborate to sustain these narratives, often at the expense of women’s agency and equality. The defense sparked lively discussions on how cultural constructions of fault influence legal and social attitudes and how they can be challenged to foster gender justice.

The event underscored the universities’ shared commitment to fostering impactful research that addresses societal challenges. It highlighted the importance of understanding the intersections of media, morality, and surveillance in shaping attitudes toward divorce, especially in a rapidly changing society like India. Attendees appreciated the interdisciplinary approach and the insights into gendered blame, stigma, and social justice. The joint thesis defense marked a significant academic achievement, showcasing Dr. Madhukullya’s rigorous research and the collaborative effort of the two universities. It contributed valuable perspectives to ongoing debates about gender, morality, and cultural change. With the guidance of Professor Patricia Taiwo, the event not only celebrated scholarly excellence but also reinforced the importance of international collaboration in addressing critical social issues. This defense will serve as a foundation for further research aimed at promoting gender equality and challenging harmful cultural narratives.