The managements of two south Mumbai colleges are miffed with the University of Mumbai for taking a discriminative stand against them. The colleges have alleged that the University acted hastily and appointed a high-level inquiry committee in response to a complaint filed by a students’ organisation. The management of Hinduja College has alleged that the University authorities had some ulterior motive behind it. The principal of Jai Hind College said that he wanted the University to follow due process of law before taking hasty decisions.
According to University sources, Prahar Vidyarthi Sanghatana had lodged a complaint with the University alleging that both the colleges were endangering students’ lives by putting up temporary shelters on the path leading to the entrance of the college from the main entrance. On receiving the complaint, the University appointed a four-member committee to look into the matter.
“The University did not bother to ask the college for an explanation. As per procedure, the concerned University department should ask the college for a reply. Only if the reply is not satisfactory, is a committee is appointed,” said Dr T. Shiware, member of the managing body of Hinduja College.
Dr Ashok Wadia, principal, Jai Hind College, said, “The awning is in place since many years and has provided much needed shelter for students during rain and sunshine. If the University found the complaint valid, they should have asked the college before appointing the committee.”
Dr Naresh Chandra, pro-vice-chancellor, said that the colleges had been asked to give an explanation, and the committee would make a visit only after receiving a reply.