Delhi University (DU) has stated in court that it is willing to present Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bachelor of Arts degree to the Delhi High Court, but it does not want to release the document publicly under the Right to Information (RTI) Act. This revelation has reignited debates around privacy, transparency, and political scrutiny.
So, what’s the full truth? Why is DU hesitant to disclose the degree publicly? Let’s break it down in simple terms, with all the facts and expert opinions.
Also Check: March Break Alert! Schools & Colleges to Remain Closed for These Many Days – Full Holiday List
Why is PM Modi’s Degree Controversial?
The controversy around Narendra Modi’s educational qualifications started years ago when political opponents questioned whether he actually held a Bachelor’s degree.
- In 2016, the Central Information Commission (CIC) directed Delhi University to disclose records of all students who graduated in 1978, including PM Modi.
- Delhi University challenged this order, saying that releasing this data would violate privacy norms.
- In response, the Gujarat University released PM Modi’s Master of Arts (M.A.) degree, but his Bachelor’s degree remains under scrutiny.
What Did Delhi University Say in Court?
During the latest court hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing DU, stated:
- DU is ready to show PM Modi’s degree to the court.
- However, they will not release it under RTI, as it would compromise students’ privacy.
- If they release this data, it could lead to endless RTI requests for student records, burdening the university system.
What Does the RTI Act Say?
The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 allows citizens to access public records but has exceptions.
According to Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act:
“Information which relates to personal information and has no relationship to any public activity or interest, or which would cause unwarranted invasion of privacy, should not be disclosed unless the authority is satisfied that larger public interest justifies it.”
Key Takeaways:
- University records are not automatically public.
- If PM Modi’s degree is released, it could set a precedent where anyone’s university records could be requested under RTI.
- The Delhi High Court now has to decide if the degree is of “public interest” that outweighs privacy concerns.
Also Check: $2,000 Stimulus Payment Coming in March 2025? Check Eligibility & Deposit Dates!
Privacy vs. Transparency
Legal and political experts are divided on the issue:
1. Those Supporting Disclosure:
- Advocates of transparency argue that public officials’ educational records should be open to public scrutiny.
- If PM Modi’s degree is genuine, there should be no hesitation in making it public.
2. Those Opposing Disclosure:
- Privacy advocates warn that releasing the degree could open floodgates for frivolous RTI requests.
- Universities could be overwhelmed with requests for celebrity or political figures’ records.
What Happens Next?
The Delhi High Court has reserved its verdict, which means it will take time to announce a final decision.
Possible outcomes:
- The court may agree with DU, keeping the degree private.
- It may rule that PM Modi’s degree is in the public interest and order disclosure.
- It could suggest a middle-ground solution, such as allowing verification but not public release.
Why This Matters to You
Even if you are not into politics, this case sets an important precedent for privacy rights and public accountability.
- If the court allows disclosure, it could impact how much personal data institutions must reveal in the future.
- If privacy wins, it might limit the scope of RTI applications in India.
Big DU Statement in Court (FAQs)
1. Does PM Modi have a degree?
Yes, according to Gujarat University, PM Modi holds an M.A. degree. His B.A. degree from Delhi University is currently under court scrutiny.
2. Can anyone request a university degree under RTI?
Not necessarily. Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act protects personal information unless public interest demands disclosure.
3. Why doesn’t Delhi University just release the degree?
DU argues that releasing one student’s record could lead to mass RTI requests and privacy violations.
4. When will the Delhi High Court announce its decision?
There is no official timeline, but the court has reserved its judgment and could issue a ruling soon.
Also Check: Women’s Day Surprise! Laadli Behna Scheme Payment May Increase – Check Details
