High Court Calls for Re-Evaluation of Mandatory Attendance Norms Post-Pandemic

The Delhi High Court has highlighted the need to re-assess mandatory attendance norms in colleges and universities post COVID-19. The court emphasized mental health considerations and encouraged a supportive rather than punitive approach. A committee might be formed to study global practices and propose uniform attendance standards.

The Delhi High Court underscored the need for a re-evaluation of mandatory attendance norms in higher education institutions, noting significant changes in teaching methods post the COVID-19 pandemic.

Justices Prathiba M Singh and Amit Sharma highlighted the importance of considering students' mental health and advocated for a supportive approach rather than penalizing low attendance.

The court suggested forming a committee to investigate global educational practices and develop uniform attendance standards for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

This observation came during the court's hearing of a case stemming from the suicide of a law student, who had been barred from exams due to insufficient attendance.

The bench also noted the trend of online and virtual classes and examinations, which challenges traditional attendance requirements. They emphasized the need for consultations to consider flexible attendance norms that accommodate diverse student needs, especially those juggling education and employment.

The court called for a distinction between professional and non-professional course attendance requirements and considered the technological disparities between urban and rural areas.

(With inputs from agencies.)