Delhi University restores ECA quota admissions - An unwise decision?

The University of Delhi, also colloquially referred to as 'DU,' has been a hub of diversity since its inception. Being one of India's most celebrated institutions, what sets DU apart is its higher rates of inclusiveness. Given that the university opens its gates to every student based upon their merit, it's been a 'dream college' blazing in the students' eyes for decades. However, admission in this prestigious collegiate is not solely limited for students who scored well in their 12th board examinations. 

DU has also been acknowledging the children's efforts coming from copious sets of disciplines throughout their school life, be it their talents of singing, dancing, debating, and any other field of what is referred under 'extra-curricular activities.'

Every year at the time of admissions, Delhi University holds trials for every child who wishes to enter into the university through this added advantage, called the ECA quota. As this quota gives an edge to kids who are just as deserving as the scholarly, DU is claimed to be an utterly welcoming institution, that looks beyond the score and actively encourages flair. 

Lamentably, due to the pandemic, DU has decided to scrape the ECA quota off this year. It's safe to say that the kids around the world have been severely impacted by COVID, as it's arduous to maintain one's mental peace during such toilsome times with no end in sight. This verdict by DU has only worsened the situations for them. 

ECA demonstrated a ray of hope for all those who believe in the reality of their dreams, which now seem shattered to them. In today's era, we're far from the orthodox conceptions that only doctors and engineers can be coined as 'intellectuals.' In our quotidian lives, we consume and enjoy the content put forward by the most creative out of the lot, making it evident that this epoch is for creators. 

DU gave the platform to all these prolific and imaginative individuals, putting forward a chance to knock. It's nothing but unfair to the creative-minded by snatching away the plausible odds for entering into these colleges. 

Moreover, there's an exception to this judgment. It does not apply to those seeking admission under the Sports quota, or through the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and the National Service Scheme (NSS). Even though we do not challenge these fields' significance, it should be the allegiance of DU not to discriminate based on talent, as the students who bring laurels in their artistic areas are equally praiseworthy. 

The selective annulment of this policy can be declared as a reckless decision, considering that the reason behind it was 'glitches' that may occur during the trials. It seems like an ironic stand on their part, as DU has time and again tilted towards the idea of conducting online exams for final-year students. 

Given that even the actors have been auditioning for their roles online, it is unjustifiable that the burden has fallen upon the shoulders of guiltless students, further risking their future. By sticking to this call, not only are the students missing out on their chance of getting into an esteemed college, but the university is also being deprived of invaluable talent.