New Delhi: A bill-seeking establishment of a National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions was today (Dec 7, 2004) introduced in Lok Sabha amid objections from NDA (National Democratic Alliance) members.

The bill, introduced by HRD (Human Resources Development) Minister Arjun Singh to replace an Ordinance, was aimed at facilitating minority educational institutions to secure affiliation to a Central University of their choice.

It will allow for a forum of dispute resolution in the form of a Statutory Commission, regarding matters of affiliation between a minority educational institution and a scheduled university and its decision shall be final and binding on the parties.

The bill would also empower the Central Government to amend the schedule to add or omit from any University. The statement of objects and reasons mentioned in the bill said the issue of setting up of the Commission was a matter of utmost urgency as an Ordinance was issued, as Parliament was not in session.

BJP member Rasa Singh Rawat said the measure had been taken by the Government to appease minorities and get their votes in elections.