Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi reinstated to India’s Parliament after Supreme Court order
PBS NewsHourAug 21, 2023
The Facts
Unacademy, an Indian learning platform, has sacked one of its educators after his classroom video urging students to vote for educated leaders went viral on social media.
Karan Sangwan was reportedly discussing the central government's efforts to overhaul the country's criminal justice system when he allegedly said: "Don't forget, when you vote next time, vote for someone who is well-educated, so you don't have to go through this [ordeal] again."
The Spin
Narrative A
Unacademy doesn't allow its educators to share their opinions in the classroom as it can disrupt learning. Sangwan's intentions are questionable because he knew his contract barred him from making political statements, and his so-called advice could influence his students, impede quality education, and block their access to unbiased knowledge. As he was required to remain impartial in the classroom, his termination is self-explanatory, legal, and fair.
Narrative B
Sangwan made a general statement; he was simply trying to guide and educate his students in the right way. However, it was enough for India's political leadership to get offended, misinterpret and misrepresent facts, and sack him. Even if faced with consequences, Sangwan must stand by what he said because asking people to vote for a literate politician is neither a biased opinion nor a crime.
Narrative C
Modi's relentless suppression of dissent first impacted press freedom and has now reached the classrooms. Sangwan was punished for exercising his democratic right to express his opinion. His archaic sacking is a sad attempt to influence young minds and eliminate criticisms of the Bharatiya Janata Party.
