Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University (Bamu) has now made the biometric attendance system mandatory for research centers running in affiliated colleges.In a letter addressed to affiliated colleges, the examination department of Bamu has asked for the submission of a monthly report of the biometric attendance of research candidates by the 5th day of each month."All enrolled research candidates must be informed that biometric attendance is mandatory from now on. The new system will be applicable starting September 1," Bamu authorities said.The decision has already evoked mixed reactions. While the university administration and other elements are justifying it, a section of candidates are opposing it."It is the first time that biometric attendance has been made compulsory for research candidates. The decision aims at inculcating discipline among candidates but may feel unwanted by some candidates," student activist Tukaram Saraf said.A research candidate opposed the decision, saying that flexibility is required while pursuing the research work. "Research candidates are not schoolchildren who need to be tracked through attendance. The compulsory biometric attendance may prove counterproductive as it would reduce the degree of freedom," said the candidate, preferring anonymity.Earlier, similar orders were issued for research centers operating in the university departments and Osmanabad sub-centers. In January this year, the university linked biometric attendance to the payment system for the teaching and non-teaching staff. The measure was taken in order to keep a check on a section of employees reporting to work late and leaving for home early.Hailed as one of the oldest universities in the country, Bamu attracts a large number of research candidates every year for Ph.D. programs offered in different disciplines. The applicants for the Ph.D. programs are divided into research centers running at the university level and those operating in affiliated colleges.

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