Importance of Attendance in Professional Degree Courses: Delhi High Court’s Perspective

In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court has reinforced the importance of attendance in professional degree courses, emphasizing that students must pursue their studies with seriousness and due diligence. The verdict came while rejecting a law student’s plea to appear for the LLB examination despite failing to meet the minimum attendance requirement.

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The Court’s Ruling on Attendance Shortage

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela dismissed the appeal of a woman student from Delhi University’s Faculty of Law. She had challenged an earlier ruling by a single judge, which also denied her request to appear in her third-semester LLB examination.

The division bench upheld the single judge’s decision, reiterating that students in professional courses like law must approach their studies with commitment. The court emphasized that minimum attendance requirements serve a crucial purpose and should not be relaxed without valid reasons.

Exceptions to Attendance Rules

The court acknowledged that exceptions to the rigid attendance rules might exist, but only if they are explicitly provided for in the university’s regulations. It clarified that attendance shortages should not be condoned merely upon request unless urgent or unavoidable circumstances, such as medical emergencies, warrant such an exception.

In this particular case, the court noted that no such exception was presented by the petitioner, making it inappropriate to intervene in the decision made by the single judge on February 11.

Student’s Plea and Court’s Findings

The petitioner was pursuing an LLB degree and was in her third semester when the authorities issued a provisional list of detainees on December 22, 2024. This list included students who had failed to meet the minimum attendance requirement. The final list, published on January 4, included her name, despite her absence from the earlier provisional list, resulting in her being denied an exam admit card.

Despite attending remedial classes, her total attendance stood at only 54%, well below the required 70%. The court highlighted that the university’s attendance rules are sacrosanct and cannot be undermined in any manner. The bench further reiterated that professional degree programs, especially law, demand a higher level of dedication compared to general degree courses.

The Importance of Attendance in Professional Education

This ruling serves as a crucial reminder for students enrolled in professional courses to adhere to academic regulations. Attendance requirements ensure that students actively participate in learning and maintain the discipline necessary for professional success. Institutions implement these criteria to uphold academic integrity and produce competent professionals.

Conclusion

The Delhi High Court’s judgment underscores the necessity of maintaining attendance in professional degree programs. While certain exceptions may exist, students must take their academic responsibilities seriously and comply with institutional rules. This case sets a precedent, reinforcing the idea that professional education demands unwavering commitment and due diligence from students.

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