Days before Valentine's Day, NIT Calicut issues diktat banning PDA on campus

Kozhikode: The National Institute of Technology-Calicut (NITC) has banned the public display of affection (PDA) inside its campus, saying that it can affect others in a number of ways. 

In enlarged bold letters, the e-mail communication sent by the dean (students' welfare) warned the students that any violation of its disciplinary policies would result in disciplinary action. It stated that the PDAs (Public Display of Affection) and engaging in private activities in academic areas, restrooms, and poorly lit areas as well as anywhere on and around the NITC campus can make others feel uncomfortable and distract from the educational environment. "...such activities, whether they are consensual or not, are not appropriate to be conducted on institute property."

"The institute has stringent policies in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all students and staff, and any violation of these policies will result in disciplinary action," said the email, dated February 6. The dean says he understands that college can be a time for exploration and personal growth, however, "it is important to remember that our campus is a place for education and academic pursuits."

It said PDAs and private activities in public areas can invade others' personal space and make them feel violated. Engaging in PDAs and private activities in public spaces is often seen as disrespectful to others and can harm community relations, the communication said.

When contacted, an NIT-C official confirmed that they have sent an email to the students banning PDAs on campus as such actions can distract others from their academic pursuits and affect their ability to focus on their studies.