Many colleges in Bangalore are very strict about attendance and the recent statement by deputy chief minister that he would direct City college principals to ensure that the students do not lose attendance from the period of exodus, came as a big relief to the students from the North Eastern states.
Arun Roy, a B.Com student says, “We had left because there was a sudden panic among all of us. But we would like to thank the government for supporting us. However, as far as covering up the daily classes goes, we will have to devise a plan soon.”
Rashmita, pursuing a PG course from Christ College says, “In our college 85 per cent of attendance is compulsory. However, they have not cut the attendance of the students who went back because of the rumours. We are helping our friends to complete the notes that they had missed during that period.”
Taba Yamu, who is studying engineering final year in Oxford College reached Bangalore on September 4.
She says, “Following the pressure from parents, we went back to Arunachal Pradesh. Our college has ensured that our attendance was not affected.”
Voicing a similar opinion, Suraj Tok from the same college says, “The teachers have assured to help us in keeping up with the rest of the classmates.”
A few colleges have even tried to help their students by arranging special classes. Portia, from St Joseph’s College says, “The political science department suspended classes for a week as majority of the students were from North East. Our teachers are now conducting special classes to complete the course.”
Do they feel safe? The recent arrests and assurances from the authorities have instilled confidence in the minds of many parents, who have let their children come back to Bangalore again to pursue their career.
Lobsang Tseten, who is studying in St Joseph College says, “I was verbally threatened right in front of my house. I was away from Bangalore for eight days and I missed some important classes.However, I feel the situation has improved now and safety has been restored.”