Arjun pressgangs unaided institutions on reservation
HRD MINISTER Arjun Singh says he has convinced private deemed universities to implement 27 per cent OBC quota in their institutions. There is, however, no unanimity on precisely how this should be gone about.
HRD MINISTER Arjun Singh says he has convinced private deemed universities to implement 27 per cent OBC quota in their institutions. There is, however, no unanimity on precisely how this should be gone about.
On Thursday, after a meeting with the representatives of some deemed universities, Singh said: "Everyone agreed that there should be reservation.
They have also given their suggestions on how this should be introduced.”
However, opposing the move, Birla Institute of Technology & Science (BITS), Pilani, said it was not part of the meeting. "BITS, Pilani was invited but could not attend the meeting," said M.K. Kashiramka, chief public relations officer, BITS, Pilani. "In fact the institute has already submitted a note to the ministry expressing its views on reservation of seats in admissions for the weaker sections." According to BITS, merit must be the only criterion for admissions, he said.
Citing limitations of infrastructure and teaching facilities, some universities present at the meeting asked for a maximum of five years to implement the quota. "Not many will have the capacity to implement the quota in one go," said H.S. Ballal, pro-chancellor of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education.
Another university representative said: "Implementing the reservation policy will require an increase in seats and infrastructure. Therefore, the government should compensate the universities accordingly." But Singh rejected the demand.
