NEW DELHI: The Indian Academy of Sciences and Indian National Academy of Sciences have written to education minister Ramesh Pokhriyal seeking withdrawal of the government’s guidelines asking universities to seek prior permission for conducting international webinars on certain subjects, saying such restrictions could halt all scientific discussions.
Besides, UGC’s letter to vice-chancellors on the promotion of an examination on the cow has also attracted the ire of a section of academics. The online Kamdhenu Gau Vigyan Prachar Prasar Examination is scheduled on February 25.
In an official order on January 15, the education ministry had said that clearance from the external affairs ministry will be required for holding international conference, seminar, workshop or training on security of state, border, northeast states, UTs of J&K, and Ladakh or any other issues related to India's internal matters.
As per the guidelines, when giving permission to hold the online event, the Centre will ensure the subject matter is not related to the listed subjects. Events having foreign funding and sponsorship and those involving sensitive subjects (political, scientific, technical, commercial, personal) with provisions of sharing data in any form, will also need MEA clearance.