Court orders publication of results for LL.B students, emphasizing compliance with University regulations of 90 working days.
In a significant verdict impacting the academic calendar of affiliated institutions, the Kerala High Court has directed Mahatma Gandhi University to regularize the examination attendance shortfall for students of the 3-year Unitary LL.B and 5-year LL.B courses at an affiliated institution. The judgment was delivered by Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, who emphasized the importance of adhering to the University regulations mandating a minimum of 90 working days per semester.
The case, filed by Vaibhav Y Kini and others, brought to light the college's failure to conduct the required 90 working days, having only completed 71. This shortfall led to several students being unable to meet the attendance requirements for their examinations. Some students managed to obtain condonation for their attendance shortage, while others were initially barred from sitting the exams.
The Court, referencing the decision in Satheesh Kumar N. v. Mahatma Gandhi University, reiterated that examinations must be scheduled only after fulfilling the required number of lecture classes, tutorials, moot courts, and seminars. The Bar Council of India's guidelines were also highlighted, underscoring the necessity of completing stipulated academic activities before examinations.
The judgment noted that the interim permission granted to students to write their exams should be made permanent, and their results should be published. The Court recognized the prejudice suffered by the students due to the college's omission and stressed that adequate working days would have allowed students to meet attendance requirements.
This ruling reinforces the accountability of educational institutions to comply with regulatory standards, ensuring students are not disadvantaged by administrative lapses.
Bottom Line:
University regulations mandate 90 working days for each semester, ensuring sufficient time for students to meet attendance requirements and complete stipulated academic activities before examinations.
Statutory provision(s): University regulations on minimum working days, Bar Council of India guidelines.
Vaibhav Y Kini v. Mahatma Gandhi University, (Kerala) : Law Finder Doc id # 2867251
