Complaint filed against HPU exam invigilator for ‘denying’ extra time to disabled scholar

Meenu Chandel, a differently-abled PhD scholar from the Department of Computer Science, Himachal Pradesh University (HPU), has alleged that she was denied additional time during her examinations, and has demanded that the university authorities take action against the invigilator.

Chandel, in her complaint, which she filed with Vice-Chancellor SP Bansal, said not being granted additional time by the invigilator affected her performance and caused her mental distress.

The examination superintendent argued that students availing the assistance of a writer were not entitled to additional time, she added.

Mukesh Kumar, convener, Disabled Students and Youth Association (DSYA) and a PhD scholar from the Department of Education, said the association strongly opposed the “injustice”, demanding justice for the scholar.

“Chandel’s course work examinations were held on December 24 and 26 from 2 pm to 5 pm, at the University Business School. Despite her request, the examination centre superintendent denied her the additional one hour of time, as mandated by UGC and university regulations, for the three-hour examination,” he said.

“This is a blatant violation of UGC regulations, state government’s policies and a decision by the state High Court,” he added.

“As per the rules, visually impaired students or those unable to write due to a disability are entitled to a writer’s assistance during exams. Additionally, they are eligible for an extra 20 minutes for every hour of examination, regardless of whether they use a writer or not,” he said.

He has also urged the Vice-Chancellor to issue strict directives to all departments and officials to ensure compliance with laws and regulations related to the rights of differently-abled students.