Debarred for low attendance, Mithibai college students to move Apex court for clarity on their graduation

Even as the state stands firm on its decision to not hold final-year exams, around 550 students of Vile Parle’s Mithibai College who were debarred for lack of attendance

Even as the state stands firm on its decision to not hold final-year exams, around 550 students of Vile Parle’s Mithibai College who were debarred for lack of attendance plan to move the Supreme Court (SC) for clarity on their fate. The students are currently working out the modalities with their lawyer.

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The Maharashtra Universities Act mandates that students must have 75% or above attendance in each subject during every semester, failing which the institute can disallow them from appearing for exams. On the basis of the rule, Mithibai College debarred around 550 students from arts, science, commerce and other self-finance courses.

In March, around 100 students who were debarred filed a petition in the Bombay high court seeking relief. The court, however, upheld the college’s decision.

On May 31, chief minister Uddhav Thackeray announced that all students, including pursuing final-year courses, will be promoted based on their performance in the previous semester. While the debarred students pointed out the state government’s decision, they are yet to hear from the college management.

Despite attempts, college principal Rajpal Hande and management’s chief executive officer Asoke Basak did not answer HT’s calls or messages.

“Most of us are worried about our futures given the Covid-19 situation. To make matters worse, the college has left us in the lurch by not clarifying our status. We have no option but to go back to the judiciary and seek help,” said another student.