Delhi University reverses fee increase for corrections in degree and marksheet

Delhi University (DU) has reversed its decision to increase fees for corrections in mark sheets and degree certificates following strong opposition from members of the Academic Council.

Last month, Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh approved a fee hike that would raise correction fees from Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 for corrections within six years of graduation, and from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 for corrections beyond six years.

During a recent meeting, the Academic Council, comprising DU teachers, expressed their objections to the fee hike. An action taken report on the fee increase, along with other agenda items, was presented to the Council.

In addition to rolling back the fee hike, the Council approved several new proposals. Notably, the Faculty of Law introduced courses on three new criminal laws effective from July 1 for LLB students.

Another significant approval was for the introduction of a BA (Hons) programme in Russian Language starting from the academic year 2024-2025. Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh highlighted, "This marks the first time DU offers a Russian programme at the undergraduate level; previously, it was only available at the postgraduate level."

The Council also sanctioned the establishment of the Dr BR Ambedkar Chair at the university, pending UGC approval.

Additionally, six elective papers were approved for students at the Centre for Hindu Studies, including 'Introduction to Vedic Literature', 'Upanishad Parichaya', 'Dharma and Religion', 'Hindu Thinkers', 'Bhagavad Gita for Humanity', and 'Purana Parichaya'.

Further decisions included allowing MSc Forensic Science students to visit crime scenes through police stations as proposed by the Department of Anthropology.

Moreover, the Council passed a proposal permitting students to pursue dual degrees simultaneously—one through regular mode and the other via open and distance learning.

Meanwhile, a proposal to include Manusmriti in the LLB curriculum was rejected by Vice-Chancellor Singh following criticism from certain teachers and students. VC Singh clarified to PTI that the rejection stemmed from the pre-screening committee's determination that the proposal was not suitable.