In India, the politicization of public spaces, especially educational institutions, morphs them into ideological battlegrounds, harming their role as learning centers. While debate is essential, constant political scuffles overshadow academic pursuits. The author advocates depoliticizing these spaces to foster open discussions, innovative thinking, and unimpeded work. Creating "neutral commons" enables idea testing without intimidation. This ensures institutions produce effective problem-solvers, not just polemicists. Insulating public spaces from hypercompetitive politics is crucial for nurturing genuine citizenship and promoting civic engagement.