Unacademy faces backlash over teacher's firing for advocating voting for educated candidates

New Delhi: Unacademy, an online education platform, has ignited controversy and faced significant backlash after dismissing an instructor for urging students to support educated political candidates. The incident, which has sparked a debate over freedom of expression and the role of educators in shaping public opinion, has drawn criticism from political leaders and academics alike.

The terminated educator, Karan Sangwan, found himself at the centre of a storm when a video of him encouraging his students to vote for well-educated candidates went viral on social media. Unacademy's co-founder, Roman Saini, asserted that Sangwan's actions violated the company's stringent "Code of Conduct," prompting the decision to sever ties with him.

Saini defended the company's position, stating that Unacademy's primary commitment is to impart unbiased knowledge and quality education to learners. He emphasized that the classroom should remain a neutral space, free from the intrusion of personal opinions that could potentially influence students' perspectives.

The controversy quickly gained momentum, with Sangwan receiving both support and condemnation. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal questioned the legitimacy of dismissing Sangwan for advocating educated political representatives, asserting that in the modern era of science and technology, illiterate public figures cannot effectively contribute to India's progress.

Rashtriya Lok Dal leader Prashant Kanojia accused Unacademy of silencing truth by punishing Sangwan for his stance. Kanojia argued that Sangwan's call to not vote for illiterate candidates was interpreted as an attack on certain political figures who prioritize name changes over substantive policies.

Congress leader Supriya Shrinate criticized Unacademy's handling of the situation, denouncing the company's leadership as "spineless and weak." Shrinate contended that succumbing to pressure and dismissing an instructor over an expression of opinion undermined the platform's mission to foster critical and independent-thinking citizens.

Sangwan, who has since launched his own YouTube channel, announced plans to divulge details about the controversy. The incident has ignited a broader conversation about the role of educators in influencing public discourse and the limits of academic freedom within online education platforms.