Traditionally Honorary Doctorates are awarded to the distinguished people for contribution in their field or for the public service. In Western countries it is also awarded for individuals who made significant contribution to the institution which awards it. Now it is being awarded to individuals who do not fit any of the above criteria.
We started seeing this degree being awarded to political leaders couple of decades back. In my view it was not correct but can be justified to some extent. I would say individual likes Anuradha Koirala , Narayanan Krishnan and many others deserve this. They were changing life of many individuals for good. Our Indian Politicians public service is typically self service or family service and would not meet stricter rules.
The recent recipients of Honorary Doctorates took it to another level. Dr. MGR Medical University conferred honorary degrees on seven doctors, including the CM and Governor's physicians. The Madras High Court questioned the manner in which it was decided. Chief Justices observed "Merely because one person is a private physician of the governor or a private physician of chief minister, he cannot be awarded the degree. We can't accept that," when hearing public litigation petition filed by advocate G.Velu.
I do not know how to say this other than cronyism. Appropriate regulatory authority such as UGC should implement tougher rules. Otherwise, ministers, MLAs, MPs, mayors, councilors, ward members, their doctors and others should able to get the Honarary Doctorates like freebies.
For all those freebies from those political parties - Here's the where and how ! (Very interesting note - share your views and comments)
ReplyDeletehttp://theindiantalks.blogspot.com/2011/03/fury-of-freebies-catch-trail.html
- Vasanth G.Benjamin