Scientists need the oxygen of free speech

Source: The post is based on the article “Scientists need the oxygen of free speech” published in “The Hindu” on 14th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS 1 – Society,  GS 2- Fundamental rights & GS 3- Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.

News: Last week, over 500 scientists and academics criticized the Indian Institute of Science for stopping a discussion about the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. In response, the head of the Indian Institute of Science, Education and Research in Mohali issued a warning to two professors who signed the letter.

Why is open discussion important in scientific institutions?

Importance of open discussion in scientific institutions are:

Expression of constitutional rights: Scientists, like all citizens, have the right to participate in societal discussions. It’s vital that research institutions respect this constitutional right, thus encouraging free and open conversations.

Educational role: Scientists often enjoy the privilege of public support for their research. This grants them the opportunity to delve deep into complex subjects. By sharing their insights on public interest matters, they uphold their responsibility to educate society. For instance, discussing the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act can provide valuable knowledge about its social and legal implications.

Overlapping science and society: Science and society are interlinked, making open discussions even more crucial. Researchers shouldn’t limit themselves to purely scientific matters. Rather, they should discuss how science can impact society and politics. For example, climate change research naturally leads to broader discussions about global politics, inequality, and justice.

Promoting social benefit: By involving themselves in social and political discussions, scientists can help ensure that their research benefits society, rather than promoting private profit. This is in line with India’s tradition of scientists, like Meghnad Saha and D.D. Kosambi, who engaged with social issues.

Upholding academic freedom: Censorship of discussions in research institutions threatens academic freedom. To safeguard this freedom, scientists must be allowed to express their views, even if they appear controversial or critical of the government.

Which law was used for censorship in this case, and what is the view of the judiciary on it?

The law used for censorship in this case is the Central Civil Service (Conduct) Rules, invoked by administrators like those at IISER Mohali. These rules prohibit criticism of the government.

However, the judiciary has expressed a different view. In 2015, the Allahabad High Court ruled that these rules do not apply to a Central University.

Furthermore, the Tripura High Court stated in 2020 that even if these rules apply, they cannot deprive citizens of their fundamental right to free speech. This signifies the judiciary’s support for freedom of expression.

What is the impact of censorship on academic freedom?

Censorship in academic institutions, like the instances at the Indian Institute of Science and the Indian Institute of Science, Education and Research Mohali, restricts open dialogue.

This can severely limit academic freedom. Scientists and academics may become hesitant to discuss important social and political issues, steering critical debate.

What should be done?

1. To ensure academic freedom, scientific institutions should resist censorship and encourage open discussions on social and political issues.
2. Administrators should avoid preemptive censorship out of fear of government reprisal.
3. Scientists, backed by their community, should stand up against any arbitrary use of authority that stifles discussion.
4. Upholding the value of free speech will not only protect academic freedom but also foster comprehensive understanding of science’s role in society.