Delhi University Abandons Social Media Regulation Policy Amid Controversies
‘Not feasible’: DU decides not to proceed with policy to regulate staff’s social media activities
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
Delhi University has decided not to proceed with a policy to regulate employees' social media use, citing feasibility concerns. This decision comes as its Hansraj College faces backlash for suspending students over online comments, raising questions about the balance between discipline and free expression.
- 01Delhi University concluded it cannot regulate staff's personal social media use.
- 02A committee was formed in December 2023 to draft the policy but found it unfeasible.
- 03Hansraj College recently suspended students for allegedly defaming the institution online.
- 04The college has since revoked suspensions following protests and criticism.
- 05Disciplinary actions against students highlight ongoing tensions regarding free speech on campus.
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Delhi University, located in New Delhi, India, has decided not to implement a policy regulating the social media activities of its employees, deeming it unfeasible after nearly three years of discussions. The university formed a six-member committee in December 2023 to address the issue, aiming to promote responsible communication. However, committee members concluded that monitoring personal accounts of employees was impractical. This decision comes amid controversies at Hansraj College, a prominent institution under the university, where several students were suspended for allegedly defaming the college on social media. Following protests, the college revoked the suspensions, indicating a partial rollback of its disciplinary actions. The situation has raised concerns about how universities manage online speech and the balance between maintaining discipline and protecting free expression.
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The decision not to regulate social media may preserve academic freedom for faculty, while the Hansraj College incident reflects ongoing tensions regarding student expression and institutional authority.
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