Examining The Role Of Institutional Culture & Power Dynamics In Restrictive Policies And Student Disempowerment In Indian Colleges

Abstract

This paper looks at how the institute’s internal culture and power structures in Indian colleges often lead to rules and restrictions that limit students’ freedom and voice. In many institutions, strict policies about behavior, dress, movement, or expression are not just about discipline they reflect deeper issues of control, hierarchy, and outdated traditions. By examining student experiences, institutional rules, and real-life cases, this paper appeals that college environments in India often discourage independence and critical thinking. Instead of empowering students, many policies aim to control them.

Indian college students typically witness oppressive and authoritarian systems that constrain expression and discourage empowerment. This research examines how restrictive college policies, lack of faculty support, misuse of authority, and overwhelmed teachers create a culture of silence and fear among students. It also demonstrates the effects of a lack of defined authority and the absence of handling valid student complaints. The research gathers primary data using a questionnaire and examines the wider impact of such settings on student well-being and institutional image. The findings also suggest some reforms in the faculty workload, policy framework, and student support measures.