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Facing backlash over its move to make aspirants for the 2017-18 batch sign an undertaking not to participate in any protests, the University of Hyderabad (UoH) released a fresh document, softening its stand on the matter.
Students had been protesting, and demanding that the administration retract the clause that had been added in the admission form.
Clarifying that students could protest at 'designated' protest spots, without obstructing the functioning of the university, the administration's new undertaking has some changes.
The Times of India reported that the new undertaking only has 9 points, while the earlier one had 14. The clause stating that the student would not misuse or misrepresent the university's name on social media, has been removed, along with restrictions on inviting the media without written permission.
The undertaking reads, “I understand my privileges and rights and, when necessary, participate in peaceful protests/demonstrations only in designated spaces without obstructing the normal functioning of the university and its various entities."
Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Vinod Pavarala, university spokesperson, said, “The undertaking was prepared after deliberation by a committee. We have decided to not call it an affidavit anymore because it brings a legal angle. An undertaking is common in departments.”
Admissions at the university began from July 10, and the administration said that all fresh students had only signed the new undertaking.
Meanwhile, the UoH Students' Union welcomed the move.
"After the continuous and strong objection put up by the the Students' Union and other progressive organizations, the administration was forced to roll back the affidavit in the form of Annexure 3 and replace it with a positively modified one, now as an undertaking. Students Union thanks the student community and all the progressive organizations who stood together and fought this forceful implementation," a statement read.