[UGC VS STUDENTS] SC Hearing On Petitions Seeking Cancellation Of Final Year Exams [Courtroom Exchange]

Vishwanathan: It is easier to devise an alternative mechanism for the final sem students than for the second sem students. 

Vishwanathan: There is no rational differentiation between last semester students and second semester students. Unequals are being treated equally.

Vishwanathan: The scenario we are in today, there has to be a different method which is devised. This is an extraordinary situation. 

Vishwanathan: The strongest argument for the SG here is that the past few circulars are Guidelines. But, they cannot be mandatory. 

Vishwanathan: This is the pith and substance of the argument. Section 12 (consultation) has been argued, so I will not delve into it. 

Vishwanathan: There are students who have grandparents, parents at home; they are not even stepping out of the house ! They don’t have access to books (which can be very expensive). 

Vishwanathan: As per 6 July Guidelines, three modes of exams are permitted. Offline - Completely out of question ! Online - They don’t have access to libraries or any student material.

Vishwanathan highlights the divide between rich and poor students, with the latter having no access to proper technology. 

The Bench informs Datta that these propositions have already been argued.

Sr. Adv. KV Vishwanathan, on behalf of Delhi Govt., begins his submissions now.  

The Bench informs Datta that these propositions have already been argued.

Sr. Adv. KV Vishwanathan, on behalf of Delhi Govt., begins his submissions now.