CPI(M) condemns Centre's decision on criteria for SC/ST students

New Delhi, Feb 2 (UNI) The CPI(M) has condemned the Centre's decision to impose eligibility critera of 60 per cent marks on the SC/ST students for getting post-matric scholarships in professional institutions.

The party in a press statement issued here today said this norm goes against the basic concept of giving social justice to the Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe students.

The Finance Ministry and the Planning Commission who are instrumental in pushing this decision are trying to impose their ''flawed understandings'' to cut subsidies, at the cost of dalit and tribal students.

The percentage of students from oppressed sections in professional institutions is dismally low and such a decision will lead to further marginalisation.

The CPI(M) urged the Centre to withdraw its decision and demanded the Government make appropriate central legislation to bring private institutions under some control in areas such as fees and admissions, the release added.

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