Symbiosis College of Arts and Commerce in Pune has stood firm on its policy of prohibiting the use of mobile phones in classrooms, despite recent controversy surrounding the suspension and arrest of a Hindi teacher over alleged religious sentiments. The ban on phone usage during class hours is being enforced rigorously, with teachers now exercising caution in their statements, and the college administration choosing to remain tight-lipped about the incident.
The controversy arose after a video clip, reportedly from a lecture held on July 25, featuring the teacher Ashok Sopan Dhole, was circulated on social media. A complaint was filed against Dhole, leading to his arrest on August 3 under IPC Section 295A (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings).
In response, students have been sternly instructed not to use their phones in class. While government rules regarding phone usage in classrooms without teacher permission were already in place, the college reissued the notice last month.
Hrishikesh Soman, Principal of SCAC, stated, “Unlike in the past when teachers were lenient about students using phones in class, they are now being very strict. We issued notices and clear instructions to keep phones switched off or in silent mode during class. Students are allowed to bring their phones to college but must keep them inside their bags in class.”
The incident involving Dhole, who has been teaching at Symbiosis for 18 years and is currently out on bail, has had a chilling effect on both students and teachers. Teachers are now cautious about making statements that could be interpreted negatively.
Regarding the inquiry committee established to decide on Dhole’s suspension, Soman commented, “Proceedings are ongoing, and Symbiosis Society is handling them, so I have no further updates. We have a temporary Hindi teacher in the meantime.”
Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar, the principal director of Symbiosis Society, did not respond to calls and text messages for two days. This silence on the incident has raised concerns about healthy classroom discussions, diversity of opinion, and academic freedom.
Students have expressed that they feel hesitant to engage in free discussions about religion or any other sensitive topics due to the fear of consequences. They believe that an intellectual environment should encourage differing opinions and free expression.
Ashok Dhole, the suspended teacher, mentioned, “I responded to the statement of allegations delivered to me by the college on August 17 with additional context to what I had been teaching when the video was recorded. I have not been informed about the status of the inquiry and have been worried about how to get by.”
He further explained that the video was taken out of context, as he was teaching a couplet that advocates treating people of all religious backgrounds equally.
The incident has also raised concerns about the potential influence of external religious and political groups on college administrations. It underscores the need for a balance between freedom of expression and addressing sensitive issues in educational institutions.
