Hyderabad: A hearing-impaired candidate’s complaint over the absence of a disability-quota seat in Communication PhD admissions has prompted the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD) to seek University of Hyderabad’s reservation and selection records. Separately, the University Grants Commission ( UGC ) has sought a factual report and action taken or proposed.
Citing Section 32 of the RPwD Act, it said govt higher-education institutions must reserve at least 5% of seats; PwBD candidates admitted on merit must count against open seats. UoH initially said scribes and compensatory time were provided, but acknowledged its statement on compensatory time was incorrect and confirmed the entitlement of 20 minutes per examination hour. Records sought include the roster, university-wide and department-wise seat matrices, allocations for Communication, prospectus, PwBD applications and admissions, merit-quota accounting, allocation policy for departments with fewer than 10 seats, disability-support mechanisms, examination guidelines and question papers. Referring to his father’s Aug 3 representation, it asked UoH to examine compliance with the Act and UGC guidelines and report to him, copying the commission, within 15 days of receipt.
CCPD observed that an otherwise eligible candidate could not be deferred merely for administrative convenience. CCPD recommended correct implementation and compliance with accommodation guidelines following allegations that hearing-impaired candidates lacked appropriate alternative/objective questions. Vikram’s eligibility, shortlisting, marks, selection criteria and reasons for not inviting him to interview, if applicable, were also sought. UGC’s letter additionally cited concerns over unfilled vacancies and alleged inconsistencies in official records.