The Delhi High Court has called for an explanation from Jamia Millia Islamia regarding its admission policy at the residential coaching academy for civil services aspirants, particularly concerning the inclusion of OBC students. The inquiry arises from a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by Satyam Singh, a law graduate, challenging the existing admission guidelines.
Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela issued notices to both Jamia Millia Islamia and the University Grants Commission (UGC), questioning the university’s compliance with UGC mandates which purportedly require inclusive access to educational benefits across various social segments, including OBC and economically weaker sections (EWS).
Singh’s petition highlights a significant concern with Jamia’s current practice of offering free coaching exclusively to female students, SC/ST, and minority communities, arguing that it unfairly excludes OBC and EWS students. However, the court noted the absence of provisions for EWS in the UGC guidelines, prompting the petitioner to narrow his plea to focus solely on OBC students.
During the proceedings, the court expressed its hesitation to mandate policy changes within the coaching academy, emphasizing that the provision of reservations and admissions policy is typically within the purview of the authorities rather than the judiciary. “You are virtually asking us to reframe a policy. Admission is not to regular courses but coaching centre. It is for authorities to provide for reservation. You are asking us to create a right,” the court remarked.
The petition, supported by advocates Akash Vajpai, Ayush Saxsena, and Puru Mudgal, argues that UGC’s financial support to central universities like Jamia entails a responsibility to avoid discrimination among underprivileged student groups. The petition claims the academy’s mission is to furnish equal opportunities and facilitate government job entry for marginalized communities, yet it paradoxically excludes OBC and EWS students, who also benefit from UPSC reservations due to their limited financial resources.
