Today, yet again for the innumerable time, our Government, was rendered as a horn-less bull or a toothless tiger as they say, by the Supreme Court. The HRD ministry declared early last week that a total of 44 deemed Universities would be stripped off their status because they were found to be grossly incapable of upholding themselves to the standards expected of them. No one expected the affected universities to just sit quietly and accept the decision and not fight back.

So today, the Supreme Court, while hearing on a public interest litigation filed against the Government, ordered a status-quo on the HRD ministry's decision until March 3rd when both sides or the argument would be heard. The Universities claim that the ministry's decision would play havoc on the student community and effect the graduating students very badly and also jeopardizing their careers.

In India, most of the Universities and education Institutions are run by powerful businessmen and politicians. Though the institutions are founded as trusts or non-profit, rampant accounting malpractices help in turning them quickly into cash-cows for their promoters. Many of the promoters then find their way into politics to hold key positions in the Government such as Mr. Jagadrakshakan from Tamil Nadu who currently holds the position of Minister of State, Information and Broadcasting. When powerful businessmen with high stakes in the industry are affected, they are bound to twist the government's arm when required.

It would be a disgrace if government is incapacitated once again, against powerful lobbyists and deep pockets, and is unable to take due action against sub-par deemed universities. Let's hope the government can not only roar but also bite. It is well agreed that India needs hundreds of world class Universities to cater to the worlds largest youth population but we should also agree on quality over quantity.