A life-term convict pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree through Gujarat University (GU) recently approached the Gujarat high court seeking temporary bail to complete a mandatory internship, arguing that without it, he would be denied his degree. However, GU informed the court that the internship requirement, applicable to BA students, can be fulfilled from within prison, prompting the inmate to withdraw his bail application. The university, however, did not elaborate on the specific nature of internships that can be undertaken from behind bars.
Background of the Case
Bhupat Rabari (26), convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment in 2020 by a city sessions court in a 2018 kidnapping-for-ransom case, has continued his education while lodged at Sabarmati central jail. Initially pursuing a BSc, he later enrolled with GU as an external student for a BA degree. He had recently secured 10 days of temporary bail to appear for semester 6 examinations.
Bail Application and Court Proceedings
Rabari subsequently applied from jail for another spell of temporary bail, citing a GU communication asking him to submit a form confirming completion of an internship. This requirement stems from the New Education Policy (NEP), which prescribes internships for undergraduate courses, and GU's mandate making internships necessary for degree eligibility. Justice Nirzar Desai, noting Rabari had just been released on temporary bail, was not inclined to grant bail again and questioned whether an internship was indeed required for a BA degree. Rabari's counsel reiterated the university's communication insisting on compliance.
On the court's query, GU's counsel clarified that the internship is mandatory but can be completed from prison. The high court recorded the submission: "Learned advocate Mr. Rahul Rajhans for learned advocate Mr. Vikas Nair appearing for the Gujarat University, under instructions, states that though internship for B.A. is required, the same can be done even from the Jail."
Withdrawal of Bail Plea and Internet Access Issue
Following GU's stand, Rabari withdrew the bail plea. His lawyer then sought directions for jail authorities to provide internet access for the internship, citing restrictions on inmates' internet use. The court remarked, "In case, if virtual mode is permissible, the jail authority may do the needful."
The case highlights the challenges faced by incarcerated individuals in meeting educational requirements under the NEP, particularly when internships involve online components. The court's observation leaves the matter of internet access to the discretion of jail authorities.
