Chennai: Of the total 44 deemed universities,enlisted to be de-recognized by Human Resource Development (HRD) ministry, 16 deemed universities are from Tamil Nadu and one from Puducherry. As per the directive issued by HRD ministry, their status of as independent universities must be withdrawn. Also, there is a widespread concern about the future of the thousands of students enrolled in these institutions.
As per sources, four of the deemed universities against which action has been recommended, are administered by politicians or their relatives. Bharath University was founded by union minister of state for information S Jagathrakshakan, the St Peter’s University was founded by former Tamil Nadu education minister and AIADMK MP M Thambidurai.
Dr MGR University is managed by A C Shanmugham, a former AIADMK MP and the Periyar Maniammai University is administered by a trust managed by K Veeramani, leader of the Dravidar Kazhagam. Atleast four of these deemed universities - PRIST in Thanjavur, Vinayaka Missions in Salem, St Peter’s in Chennai, and Periyar Maniammai in Thanjavur have enrolled thousands of students in several courses offered through the distance education mode and study centres spread across the nation.
On the recommendation of Tandon Committee, the centre had filed its affidavit in the Supreme Court, regarding the deemed universities. However, it has also drawn up a comprehensive scheme to ensure that education of those students is not disrupted. The state government has decided to adopt a wait and watch policy. K Ponmudy, Higher Education Minister of TN said that they will wait for the court’s verdict on how to integrate the students (who had enrolled in deemed universities) in regular universities. The Supreme Court should give directions on this and we will comply with it.
