UGC Directs Universities And Colleges To Set Up Selfie Points With Narendra Modi's Picture; "A Virtual Campaign Of BJP"

In the backdrop of the general election that is on its way, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has asked all the universities and colleges to set up selfie point with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s picture in the background. According to officials, the move was to raise awareness among the young generations about India’s “achievements in various fields” and “fostering a sense of collective pride”, as per media reports.

The new arrangement of setting up selfie points for students and visitors to take selfies, and encouraging them to post the pictures online will add to the virtual campaign of BJP. The institutions are allowed to put up the selfie points only in accordance with the approved designs shared by the ministry of educations, which will be in 3D layout.

The designs are said to be in line with particular themes like Indian Knowledge system, Smart India Hackathon, unity in diversity, research and innovation and internationalisation of education.

“These selfie points will not only serve as a source of pride, but also enlighten every citizen about the transformative initiatives that have propelled India’s growth on the global stage. Students and visitors should be encouraged to capture and share these special moments on social media platforms”, said UGC secretary Manish Joshi in a letter sent to all Indian universities and principals of all the collages, said The Telegraph.

He also added that the selfie point arrangement will encompass national initiatives such as “Ek Bharat Shreshth Bharat” and National Education Policy (NEP). “The selfie points in these institutions will emerge as a dynamic and engaging place to instill a sense of national pride and awareness among youngsters and inspire future generation”, Mr. Joshi added in the letter.

A faculty member of a top institution opined that the government is trying to paint every ordinary achievement as a milestone achievement and attributing the credits of the achievements to Narendra Modi. He said, “What is happening is full-blown propaganda to build a cult figure. The state is doing it using public institutions that have nothing to do with these activities”, said The Telegraph. He further added that there is no provision in the government that green signal the government or the UGC to demand academic institutions to “promote such propaganda”.