Survey on Moral Policing in Academic Institutions in India

In recent news, the tragic suicide of Sradha Satheesh has further highlighted the distressing consequences of moral policing in India. Sradha, an engineering student from Amal Jyothi College in Kerala, was believed to have taken her own life due to the overwhelming pressure and mental anguish caused by moral policing.

As reported by The Quint, one student expressed that Sradha’s untimely demise has brought attention to the alleged mistreatment of students and the creation of a toxic environment by the management of the college in Kanjirapally.

The incident intensified tensions within the college, leading to a protest by hundreds of students demanding justice for Sradha.

What is Moral Policing

Moral policing, a deeply ingrained issue in academic institutions across India, raises concerns about personal freedom, autonomy, and the right to individual expression. This Real Research blog delves into the disturbing phenomenon of moral policing within the school system, shedding light on its impact on students’ lives and the urgent need for reform.

Moral policing manifests in various forms, often rooted in cultural norms, societal expectations, and deeply entrenched patriarchal attitudes. It involves imposing strict regulations and surveillance on students, targeting their appearance, behavior, and personal choices.

Restrictions on Dress Code and Expression

One area where moral policing is prominently witnessed is the enforcement of rigid dress codes. Students, especially young girls, are subjected to excessive scrutiny and judgments regarding their attire. This not only reinforces gender biases but also undermines the principles of personal freedom and self-expression. Such practices can lead to body shaming, lowered self-esteem, and psychological distress among students.

Furthermore, moral policing extends beyond dress codes and encompasses monitoring relationships and social interactions among students. Strict surveillance and intrusion into personal lives under the guise of “protecting moral values” infringe upon students’ privacy and hinder their emotional development. These invasive measures undermine trust and contribute to fear and surveillance.

Impacts on Mental Health and Education

The repercussions of moral policing in academic institutions are far-reaching. The constant scrutiny, judgment, and restrictions imposed on students negatively impact their mental health– leading to stress, anxiety, and a compromised learning environment. Moreover, students are forced to conform, stifling their creativity, critical thinking, and individuality.

Moral policing in academic institutions perpetuated a culture of control, suppressing individuality and perpetuating regressive norms. Challenging and dismantling such practices is crucial to foster an environment that nurtures intellectual growth, personal freedom, and respect for diversity.

Sradha’s tragic demise underscores the damaging effects of moral policing on young individuals. This heart-wrenching incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the pervasive issue of moral policing within academic institutions and society.

Real Research, an online survey app, launched a survey on this topic to hear what the public thinks about moral policing in academics. Hurry and answer the survey on moral policing in academic institutions in India on the Real Research app on June 16, 2023, and win 60 TNCs as a reward.