Debate sparked over student reels and freedom of expression
These measures come amid a private university in Bengaluru recently suspending a student for posting a reel that “targeted” the varsity. They help distinguish student-run accounts from the university’s official channels,” said Ram Kumar Kakani, vice-chancellor of RV University. “We want to ensure students are sensitive to offensive content on social media and the consequences of violating guidelines,” said Vidya Shankar Shetty, pro vice-chancellor, Presidency University. some others said they ask students to take down such posts While many universities said they do not prevent their students from posting critical comments or negative content on the institution. “In our orientation itself, we’re told that negative posts/comments on the university won’t be entertained,” said a student of a deemed-to-be university.
The student had a tiff with a classmate. When the faculty did not take any action following her complaint, she posted a reel alleging discrimination. She was asked to take down the reel and handed a suspension. “RV University has social media guidelines that enable ‘building social trust’ covering the use of its name, logo and brand identity, and the responsible sharing of information, photographs, audio and videos. Students are free to share their experiences, views and achievements. The guidelines simply bring clarity: content should not misrepresent the university, compromise anyone’s privacy, or disclose confidential information. Presidency University has written guidelines and also sensitises students through periodic sessions held by counsellors and the branding team.
- RV University : Students must use the name and logo in line with brand guidelines, seek consent before posting identifiable images of others, respect privacy and dignity of those featured * CMR University: No explicit guidelines, but students must act responsibly and exercise prudent judgment online