The Cluster Innovation Centre (CIC) at Delhi University (DU) has proposed the removal of Muslim reservation from its Master of Science (MSc) in Mathematics Education program. This course is jointly conducted by DU and Jamia Millia Islamia under the Meta University concept.
The CIC's Governing Body will soon discuss this proposal. This issue could reignite the debate surrounding the role and limits of religion-based reservations in higher education.
What is the Current Reservation Structure of the MSc Program?
• Currently, the MSc in Mathematics Education program has a total of 30 seats.
• Unreserved Category: 12 seats
• OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 6 seats
• Muslim General Category: 4 seats
• EWS: 3 seats
• Scheduled Caste: 2 seats
• Scheduled Tribe, Muslim OBC, and Muslim Women: Remaining seats
• This reservation structure is currently based on both religion and caste.
DU Officials: 'Reservation Should Not Be Based on Religion'
A senior DU official stated, "As per the university's policies, reservation should not be based on religion. When we talk about caste-based reservations, our aim is to benefit the underprivileged sections. But reservation based on religion cannot be justified."
Meta University Concept: A Symbol of Collaboration or a Conflict over Reservations?
Launched in 2013, this program symbolizes the collaboration between DU and Jamia Millia Islamia under the Meta University concept. As per the initial agreement, it was decided that 50% of the students would be admitted from DU and 50% from Jamia.
However, in the past few years, the admission process has become completely digital. Now, all students are admitted solely by DU through the Common University Entrance Test (CUET-PG).
What Will Be the Decision of the Governing Body on the Proposal?
An official from CIC stated, "Now the question arises that since students are getting admitted through DU, they should naturally follow DU's reservation policy."
This proposal is with the Governing Body and will be presented to the Vice-Chancellor after discussions. If this proposal is passed, it could end Muslim reservation in the course.
Debate on Reservations: The Role of Religion in the Education System
This proposal could spark a broader discussion on the limits of reservation and the role of religion in Indian higher education. For the Muslim community, this reservation is a symbol of Jamia Millia Islamia's influence. If this proposal is implemented, it will also impact this joint effort of Jamia and DU.
What is the Meta University Concept?
The Meta University concept is a new model of higher education in India, in which two or more universities run courses in mutual collaboration. This gives students the opportunity to benefit from the resources of different universities.
What Do Experts Say?
Education experts believe that removing religion-based reservations could send a divisive message to society. Meanwhile, some consider it a step towards equality.
Will the Nature of Reservation Change?
This proposed change at Delhi University is raising new questions about reservations in higher education. It will be interesting to see what decision the Governing Body and the Vice-Chancellor take on this issue. Will this decision redefine the reservation system, or will it become another cause of controversy?
