Kolkata: Aliah University has issued directives restricting social media use and the display of posters, prompting sharp debate within the campus community. The order, dated September 12 and signed by the officiating registrar, prohibits teachers, students, and staff from posting content that authorities deem harmful to the university’s image. Violations will invite disciplinary action.
The directive does not clearly define what qualifies as “objectionable,” leading to concerns among students and faculty about arbitrary interpretation. On the same day, the administration also ordered that banners and posters be displayed only in designated areas, warning that unauthorized displays would be removed.
Vice-Chancellor Rafikul Islam defended the move, stating that false allegations were being spread against him and the university. He said no post damaging the university’s reputation would be tolerated. “Posters are permitted, but not false allegations,” he added.
The decision has drawn criticism from several quarters. Shuvajit Sarkar, a member of the central executive committee of the SFI, described the order as alarming. He argued that freedom of speech and expression is a constitutional right and said restrictions of this kind must be opposed through organized protests.
University officials maintain that the measures are necessary to protect the institution’s reputation and ensure order on campus. Critics, however, fear the directives will be used to silence dissent and weaken open discussion within the university. The debate highlights a growing tension between institutional control and the rights of students and staff.
