Reform of the undergraduate system in Delhi University has been long overdue. But it would be a shame now when the opportunity presents itself for the university not to engage in sustained introspection and analysis, and initiate widespread consultation, as a prelude to implementing changes that are both bold and pragmatic. DU has, instead, embarked on a mission driven by an abject desire for global homogeneity, combined with a disastrous conservatism and lack of vision. A major overhaul of the system is being carried through with haste, students and teachers are being subjected to a costly and painful trial-and-error experiment, and draconian measures for implementation are being resorted to.
