Chennai, May 29 (IANS): After acting against a students' group for distributing controversial pamphlets that were likely to create an atmosphere of hate, IIT-Madras on Friday declared it was not against freedom of expression for students but expected them to adhere to certain guidelines
"We are not against students' freedom of expression, but expect them to adhere to certain guidelines," the premier institution said in a statement issued here by its spokesperson.
Pointing out that there were several students' organisations on the campus, the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT-M) statement observed that "some of these organisations represent the entire student body, elected and run by the students themselves".
"Some of the student groups are formed based on the interests of students. Student groups desiring to use the institute's resources are required to be recognised and they are to follow guidelines prescribed by the Board of Students which consists of all the elected student representatives," said the statement.
The statement was issued after reports that the institute had taken action against Ambedkar Periyar Study Circle (APSC) -- a students' study group -- over an anonymous complaint to the centre saying that it was trying to "create hatred atmosphere" among students by distributing "controversial pamphlets and posters" on the campus.
The statement said that while IIT-Madras does not curtail freedom of expression of the students, it is expected that student groups adhere to laid down guidelines while conducting their activities.
"As per the guidelines in force, the student bodies are not allowed to use the institute's name (IIT-Madras) or any of its official entities in any capacity to publicize their activities or garner support, without official approval," it said.
It also said that this group has violated these guidelines while conducting its meetings.
"Normally, violation of these guidelines leads to temporary derecognition pending their presenting their stand to the Board of Students. In the present case also, the same procedure is being followed," the statement said.