My roommate and I were condemning in harsh and helpless terms the blocking/'denying access' of certain websites (chiefly ones containing audio and video), and how we are kept devoid of accessing such websites on useless pretexts.Further, we are not given access to internet in hostels because it might act as a possible distraction to us. There was a short duration when access to this site itself was restricted. On a closer examination, I found that such a practice of regulating internet timings or access is prevalent even in institutions which might require internet access the most - the IITs (the most recent curb being in IIT Bombay). In those institutions, the primary reason seems to prevent students from spending too much time online, rather than the technological reason of slowing the internet speed. The administration is concerned about students wasting their time on wasteful internet surfing, and ignore academics. However, one fails to understand how far this justification is tenable. Takes us to the larger normative issue of whether the university administration should 'morally police' students in such a liberal atmosphere. Even if it should, the extent is quite debatable. Students have often found themselves in disagreement with the administration, not only with regard to this issue. Specific examples from Law School include restricted timings of hanging out of hostels in groups (the limit being 12.30 a.m.), restricting administrative block (which includes the comp lab) timings, restricted posting on the 19(1)(a) board, which is supposed to be a symbol of 'free and fearless' expression and many such other instances. Why should there be such moral policing if it does not cause other people nuisance and is harmless? It's just strange. Will continue on this later, preferably after some comments.
Trying hard to play tennis, somehow plans not materializing..
1 comment:
To exercise authority, inter alia.
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