St. Stephen's students may be debarred from exam for not attending morning assembly

St. Stephen’s college threatens suspension to students for not attending morning prayers

New Delhi, Feb 20 (IANS) The St. Stephen’s College of Delhi University has put over 100 students at risk of being barred from sitting in the upcoming exams for failing to attend the morning assembly prayers, the institution’s administration has warned.

The college administration emailed the parents of the affected students, asking them to meet with the Principal to discuss the low attendance in the morning assembly. The students were reportedly suspended from the class and faced the consequence of being excluded from the upcoming examinations for not attending the prayers.

The decision has been met with opposition from students and many teachers who argue that forcing students to listen to religious scriptures and prayers against their will is contrary to the liberal ethos of any institution of higher learning. Sanjeev Grewal, Head of Department of Economics, St. Stephen’s College, expressed shock and opposed the decision, stating that students should only be barred from exams for reasons explicitly stated in the university rules and regulations.

He also questioned the legitimacy of making assembly attendance compulsory and raised concerns about the violation of students’ fundamental rights. The students, on the other hand, cited issues of feasibility in setting up appointments with the Principal, as some of their parents do not reside in Delhi NCR and they faced scheduling and financial issues.

The college administration has initiated a written communication with the Principal and senior members of the college to express their concerns and seek clarification on the grounds of suspension. Some parents have also met with the administration to try to resolve the issue.

The decision to threaten suspension and exclusion from exams due to non-compliance with assembly attendance has sparked controversy and drawn criticism from students, parents, and educators. The matter remains unresolved as the college administration stands by its decision, while students and teachers continue to oppose it vehemently.

–IANS
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