Concerns Over Academic Freedom in India: 'Free to Think 2026' Report Highlights Restrictions
Overview of Academic Freedom in India
The recent 'Free to Think 2026' report from the global network 'Scholars at Risk' has identified India as one of the nations where academic freedom is significantly limited.
Key Findings of the Report
This report raises alarms about the state of academic freedom in India, categorizing it among countries with severe restrictions. It indicates that the government's increasing involvement in higher education is affecting university governance, leadership selections, and academic focus. Furthermore, it points out various incidents that have compromised the freedom of expression for both students and faculty members on campuses.
Global Context: 382 Attacks Documented
The 'Scholars at Risk' report records 382 incidents targeting higher education institutions across 59 nations from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. It highlights efforts in multiple countries to suppress dissent and enhance political oversight of educational establishments. The report also references the 2026 Academic Freedom Index, which shows that in the last decade, 50 out of 179 countries have experienced notable declines in academic freedom, while only nine have seen improvements.
India's Classification in the Report
India is categorized as 'severely restricted' alongside nations like Hong Kong, Indonesia, Pakistan, West Bengal, and Ukraine. In contrast, countries such as Afghanistan, China, Iran, and Russia fall under the 'fully restricted' category. The report emphasizes that the central government's influence in India's higher education sector has grown, affecting university governance, leadership roles, and academic priorities. It also documents instances where university administrations have dismissed faculty, canceled academic events, and enacted policies limiting student expression.
Concerns Regarding UGC Policies
The report critiques the University Grants Commission (UGC), alleging that the ruling party has leveraged it to impose state control over higher education. It cites recent UGC policies perceived as attempts to tighten government oversight of universities, including alterations to the academic qualifications for Vice-Chancellors and the elimination of the 10% limit on non-permanent faculty. According to the Academic Freedom Index data, India's score fell from 0.38 in 2022 to 0.14 in 2025, indicating a broader trend of declining academic freedom, which is also evident in countries like the United States.
Specific Cases of Faculty and Student Concerns
The report highlights specific instances involving Indian faculty members that raise alarms about academic freedom. One notable case is that of Professor Snehashish Bhattacharya from South Asian University, who was dismissed in 2025 for alleged misconduct that was deemed against the university's interests. Bhattacharya, along with 14 other faculty members, had previously voiced concerns regarding the management of student protests at the university in November 2022. The report documents several similar cases.
Issues Surrounding Campus Protests and Academic Events
The report indicates that some universities have canceled academic events due to statements made by participants about the subjects being discussed. It also underscores the pressure faced by student protesters from university administrations, law enforcement, and rival student groups. 'Scholars at Risk' notes that student protests have emerged around topics such as national identity, caste, religion, historical narratives, policy changes, and academic decisions.