GDG Kolkata: Erasing Questions, Silencing Voices

In a community that thrives on collaboration, open dialogue, and mutual respect, silencing voices should never be the answer. Yet, GDG Kolkata seems to have chosen this path, as past actions in their official Telegram group reveal troubling tendencies to suppress dissent rather than address it.

The Incident

A screen recording of GDG Kolkata’s official Telegram group has surfaced, and it tells a story no community organizer wants to be associated with. The entire chat history has been wiped clean, a digital erasure of questions, concerns, and criticisms from attendees and community members. Those who dared to ask about the mismanagement of past events or raise valid questions about financial transparency were banned outright from the group.

This move not only undermines the trust of the community but also raises significant concerns about accountability. What are the organizers hiding? Why are they unwilling to face the very community they claim to represent?

The Bigger Picture

This isn’t an isolated event. Over the past few years, GDG Kolkata’s leadership has faced repeated allegations of mismanagement, lack of transparency, and even threats against community members who voiced their concerns. From chaotic event planning to questionable use of sponsorship funds, the issues seem systemic and persistent.

The deletion of group history and banning of members is a stark escalation. It signals an unwillingness to engage with feedback or even acknowledge mistakes. In a world where digital transparency is key to building trust, such actions only deepen the divide between the organizers and the community.

Why This Matters

A developer community like GDG is built on the principles of openness and collaboration. Events like DevFest are supposed to celebrate innovation and foster connections, not alienate attendees and volunteers. By silencing voices and erasing history, GDG Kolkata is not just damaging its own reputation but also undermining the core values of the global GDG network.

A Call for Change

This situation demands more than an apology. It requires introspection, transparency, and a commitment to doing better. Community leadership isn’t about wielding power; it’s about empowering others. GDG Kolkata’s organizers need to rebuild trust by addressing these issues head-on, reinstating banned members, and fostering a culture where feedback—positive or negative—is welcomed.

Until then, the actions of GDG Kolkata serve as a cautionary tale: without accountability, no community can thrive. Let’s hope this is a wake-up call for meaningful change.