| Introduction: What is the issue? Body: What is the importance of encouraging social and political discussions in scientific institutions for society? Conclusion: Way forward. |
Recently, authorities of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) sought to ban a discussion on the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) by a student collective on the campus raising the important issue regarding the importance of social and political discussions in scientific institutions.
What is the importance of social and political discussions in scientific institutions?
- Constitutional right: Scientific institutions are also part of Indian society and as such their members too have a fundamental right to express their views and took part in socio-political discussions.
- Critical inquiry: Social and political discussions widen the perspectives on multiple issues and helps in pursuing a critical inquiry into a variety of subjects. Further, critical analysis of discussions can help academicians in their responsibility to educate and express themselves on matters of public interest.
- An argumentative tradition of India: Indian scientists have a long and distinguished history of taking an active interest in social issues. Eg, physicist Meghnad Saha, the mathematician D.D. Kosambi, and the chemist Amulya Reddy. Another famous example is Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishad, which has made a significant contribution to the dissemination of scientific ideals throughout the State and All India Peoples Science Network has advocated that science should be applied for societal good rather than for personal gain.
- Ethical consideration: Science often involves ethical dilemmas related to implications of future technology or potential research as seen in AI and CRISPR Gene editing technology. Encouraging discussions can help in understanding the implications and consequences of research.
How the participation of scientists in these discussions can contribute to society?
- Policy development: These discussions can help bridge the knowledge gap between the scientific community and the common citizenry and ensures that policy decisions address societal challenges effectively.
- Foster a culture of transparency: These discussions foster a culture of accountability and transparency in the institutions and help scientists to demonstrate their findings to the masses.
- Inclusivity and diversity: Social and political discussions in scientific institutes and scientific discussions in art institutes provide a platform for diverse voices to be heard & valued. It fosters creativity and encourages new ideas within the community.
Conclusion:
There is an urgent need to relook at the issue of self-censorship which has restricted academic freedom in our universities. It is rightful for the authorities to abide by various orders of High Courts invoking that Civil Service (Conduct) Rules are ill-suited for academic scientists and “have no application to a Central University”.
