Mumbai: The committee constituted by the education department to suggest amendments to the Fee Regulation Act has itself come under criticism, with activists alleging that the committee’s constitution violates conditions of the act by appointing members who are part of schools.
Section 8 (6) (g) of the act stipulates that any committee formed on fee regulation should not have members belonging to any educational institution. According to an education activist, the committee for amendment to the act was set up through a government resolution (GR) dated May 6, 2017, where the state mentioned names of members of the committee. Some of the names included V.G. Palshikar, chairman of the committee; and Krishnaprasad Warrior; and Mohan Awte (members).
The activist said, “While the GR mentions composition of the committee, it has paid scant regard to the rules mentioned in the act itself.” Referring to the rule allegedly flouted by the resolution, the activist said, “Rule 8 of the act dwells on composition, tenure and compensation of the fee regulatory committee. Sub-rule 6 mentions about disqualification of members and sub-sub-rule (g) mentions that a member will be disqualified if he holds any office, post, or is in any way connected with an educational institution. However, the amendment committee comprises two representatives of schools as well as Mr Awte who is employed with the SVKM group of institutions. Hence, the committee’s composition is suspect.”
Education minister Vinod Tawde did not respond to calls or a message asking about the validity of the committee and Mr Awte’s appointment as member. Mr Awte too was not reachable for comment.
