IIT Roorkee Warns Students Against Supporting Political Movements on Social Media
NEW DELHI — IIT Roorkee has issued an advisory warning its students, staff, and employees against using social media to express support for political movements, triggering a "gag order" controversy.
The advisory, which was issued by the registrar of the institute on Monday, July 20, cautioned the campus community against using social media platforms to back political movements. The directive has sparked a row over freedom of speech on the campus.
According to the official advisory, the administration observed that some members of the institute had shown their affinity on platforms like Facebook and Instagram with a political movement "like the one currently in public utterance and criticism."
In the communication, the registrar politely reminded all admitted students, appointed staff, and other stakeholders that the institute's role is to provide instructions, research, and to advance learning and disseminate knowledge in engineering, technology, science, and the arts.
The advisory specifically noted: "It has been noticed on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook that some of the campus inmates have shown their affinity with political movement like the one currently in public utterance and criticism."
The registrar's message continued by reminding the community of their primary purpose, stating: "All the students, employees, stakeholders are politely reminded herewith that IIT admitted students or appointed staff to provide for instructions, research and for advancement of learning and dissemination of knowledge in engineering, technology, science and arts."
The institute defended the advisory by stating it is in line with existing conduct rules. These rules strictly prohibit students and employees from participating in political activities. They also bar the campus community from making public statements that could embarrass the institute's relationship with the Central government.
The warning has reinforced strict conduct rules for the institute's community, highlighting the ongoing tension regarding political engagement and public expression among students and staff.
