SIO urges MHRD to provide clear directions to educational institutions in minority sub-quota issue immediately

New Delhi: Students Islamic Organisation of India (SIO), Secretary General, P M Salih strongly demand Government of India particularly the Minister of Human Resource Development, Mr. Kapil Sibal to provide clear directions to educational institutions to carry on with existing decisions on or before 13th June 2012. When the Central Government appeals this verdict in the Supreme Court, SIO will also become a party in Public Interest Litigation in this issue. Although Government has decided to appeal this verdict in Supreme Court, Government has to ensure implementation of 4.5 sub-quota in the current academic year; since the admission procedure has already started.

It was an appreciating decision of UPA Government to earmark 4.5% sub-quota for minority within 27% OBC reservation taking into account their socio-economic and educational backwardness. But now, the government seems to have lost the interest in the cause. No statement has yet been issued from MHRD. Minority and Law minister Salman Khurshid comments frequently. He also said to approach Supreme Court in July after summer vacation. But he is silent on IIT admission. It is to be noted here that the counseling for admission starts by 10th June onwards.

The positive attempt, of earmarking 4.5% sub-quota for Muslims, by government of India had come in the last December. The verdict from Andhra Pradesh High Court quashed this 4.5% sub-quota on May 28. It is the fifth time that the high court has given its adverse verdict on the issue of reservations for minorities. This has created crisis in already started admission process in educational institutions. IIT governing body has decided to go on considering AP High Court rule as a mandate unless any legal development/information received from MHRD before 13th June. Central Universities and other institutions may also move forward in this direction. This may force many students to lose opportunities for admissions in current academic year.

SIO demand MHRD and Law Ministry to stop war of words and jointly advance in this regard. SIO may be compelled to go forward strongly with the support of students, parents and minority leaders if government does not take this issue seriously.

In this regard an SIO delegation under the leadership of Shariq Ansar, National Secretary with Ajmal V, member, National Education Strategy Cell met HRD Secretary and conveyed these apprehensions and demands.

Shariq Ansar

National Secretary, SIO of India

[email protected] 08447510543