Mumbai school principal asked to resign over social media activity supporting Palestine

PTC News Desk: A Mumbai school principal, Parveen Shaikh, due to her liking of pro-Palestine posts on social media amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The management of Somaiya School in Mumbai’s Vidyavihar area stated that Shaikh’s social media activities conflicted with the school’s values of unity and inclusivity, leading to her termination.

The school emphasised its support for freedom of expression but stressed the importance of exercising it responsibly. Shaikh, in response, criticised her termination as illegal and politically motivated, asserting her exceptional work record during her 12-year tenure at the school.

Our Media Statement on 7th May 2024 pic.twitter.com/CFgOS6oCvb

— Somaiya Vidyavihar (@SomaiyaTrust) May 7, 2024

While the school sought clarification from Shaikh and awaited her response last week, her termination was announced without specifying if she had replied.

This incident underscores the intersection of personal expression on social media and professional responsibilities, highlighting the complexities schools face in navigating such situations.

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