The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): St. Stephen’s College, a part of Delhi University, has stirred controversy by potentially barring over 100 students from sitting for upcoming exams due to their low attendance at morning assembly prayers. The college administration’s decision, conveyed through emails to students and their parents, has been met with opposition from students and faculty alike.
Sanjeev Grewal, Head of the Economics Department at the college, has vocally opposed the administration’s stance. In an open letter to the college principal, Grewal expressed shock at the suspension of students and the threat of debarring them from examinations. He argued that missing morning assembly should not be a legitimate ground for such severe academic consequences. Grewal also raised concerns about the compulsory nature of assembly attendance, suggesting it might violate students’ fundamental rights under Articles 25 and 28(3) of the Constitution.
The college’s morning assembly, a unique tradition involving religious prayers and scripture readings, is not recognized as an official requirement by the university. Students, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed that they were suspended and debarred from semester exams for failing to meet with the Principal following low assembly attendance in January. The students highlighted the impracticality of arranging such meetings, especially for those whose parents live outside Delhi.
The administration’s emails to parents requested meetings with the Principal regarding the issue. Some parents have reportedly met with the administration in an attempt to resolve the situation.
This incident has raised questions about the enforcement of religious practices in educational institutions and the impact on students’ rights and academic progression.
