Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has said Professor Jason Arday faced an “unacceptable public hounding and campaign of abuse” as political and academic figures pay tribute following his death at the age of 41.
Arday, a prominent sociologist who became the youngest Black professor appointed at the University of Cambridge, was found dead at his home in Battersea, south London, on Friday.
The Metropolitan Police has said his death is being treated as unexpected but is not believed to be suspicious.
In a strongly worded statement following the news, Khan said:
“I’m devastated for the family and friends of Jason Arday.
“He faced an unacceptable public hounding and campaign of abuse. I know many Londoners will be angry and upset this evening.
“Jason Arday was the victim of a pernicious public shaming that other people in his position simply wouldn’t have faced.
“His death was a tragedy, but once again it should be a wake up call for all of us.”
Arday had been subjected to intense public and media scrutiny in recent weeks following allegations concerning plagiarism in his academic work and questions about elements of his personal and professional history.
He denied deliberately plagiarising work but acknowledged mistakes in his doctoral thesis. He resigned from his position at Cambridge last week, saying that the sustained accusations, speculation and public commentary surrounding him had taken a profound toll.
His family have spoken of their shock and grief and said Arday had been subjected to a sustained campaign of abuse and misinformation.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has also paid tribute, describing Arday’s death as “a tragedy on so many levels” and calling for reflection on what had happened.
Arday’s academic career had attracted national attention. His work focused particularly on race, education and inequality, and his appointment at Cambridge in 2023 was widely reported as a significant moment for representation within British higher education.
The circumstances surrounding his death have now prompted a wider debate about the boundaries between legitimate scrutiny and public shaming, as well as the impact that sustained online and media attention can have on individuals.
Khan’s intervention adds to calls for reflection over the treatment Arday received in the period before his death.
Supporters are also planning a vigil in Trafalgar Square following the news, amid growing discussion about Arday’s treatment and legacy.
