A set of guidelines issued by the PU College Principals’ Association, Bengaluru South, has come under sharp criticism.
The guidelines have been opposed by many, including lecturers and principals, who believe that they are likely to curb women’s freedom.
Some guidelines say that the girls’ entry and exit time needs to be monitored, their browsing activities need to be checked and college faculty can get personal information about the girls from their parents in case of special cases.
The guidelines have been sent out to about 250 colleges in Bengaluru South. Lecturers and principals of these colleges have opposed it and stated that they will not adhere to them.
Thimmaiah Purle, president of Karnataka State PU College Lecturers’ Association, said these guidelines would take away the independence of women. “We do not believe in creating an atmosphere of fear among students,” he said.
‘Placing blame on girls’A second year pre-university student expressed displeasure over the guidelines. “Rape and sexual assault can take place anywhere. These guidelines are only trying to place the blame on girls as though we are responsible for rape and sexual assault,” she said.
Although the guidelines say that the circular has been issued by the Deputy Director of Pre-University (DDPU), Bengaluru South, the Department of Pre-University Education has distanced itself from it. Sources in the department said it would be reviewed on Monday and withdrawn if necessary.
Sushama Godbole, Director, Pre-University Education, said the department did not find the need to clarify as the circular had been issued by the association.
Venkataswamy, DDPU, Bengaluru South, said his designation was on the guidelines as he was the honorary president of the association.
K.R. Manjunath, secretary of the association, which framed the guidelines, defended them saying they were framed with “good intention” to “protect” girl students.
