G.O. (Ms) No. 327, Online Classes for Higher Educational Institutions, 2021
The Revenue and Disaster Management (DM-IV) Department issued G.O. (Ms) No. 327 dated 22 March 2021, directing higher educational institutions under the Higher Education Department and deemed universities to conduct classes online from 23 March 2021 because of increasing COVID-19 infections. The order changes the previously permitted mode of college and university classes, but it contains no provisions affecting land, property ownership or land administration.
What the order does
G.O. (Ms) No. 327 dated 22 March 2021 was issued by the Revenue and Disaster Management (DM-IV) Department under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. It directs all higher educational institutions controlled by the Higher Education Department, and deemed universities, to conduct classes online from 23 March 2021 onwards, with six working days.
The direction was issued after discussions about increasing COVID-19 cases. Vice-Chancellors reported that classes could be conducted online and that 70 to 80 per cent of the syllabus had been covered. The Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine also reported clusters emerging from colleges and hostels, with the potential to spread infection to students' home areas and surrounding communities.
Institutions and students affected
G.O. (Ms) No. 327 applies to higher educational institutions under the control of the Higher Education Department and to deemed universities. The document refers to colleges and universities offering:
- Arts and science courses.
- Technical and engineering courses.
- Agriculture, fisheries and veterinary courses.
- Undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
- Diploma and polytechnic courses.
The order was sent to university registrars, relevant institutions, the Director of Technical Education, the Director of Collegiate Education and all District Collectors, among others.
Examinations and practical work
G.O. (Ms) No. 327 provides specific instructions for practical work and examinations:
- Practical classes and practical examinations for science, engineering and polytechnic students must be completed before 31 March 2021.
- Particular attention is given to final semester students.
- Semester examinations are to be conducted online.
The document records that practical classes and examinations for science stream students were already in progress when the decision was made.
Relevance to property and land matters
G.O. (Ms) No. 327 is a COVID-19 education measure, even though it was issued by the Revenue and Disaster Management (DM-IV) Department. It does not create or change land rights, ownership records, registration requirements, planning controls or property procedures. A property buyer, owner or land professional is not directly affected in that capacity.
This summary is generated from the source document to help you find what is relevant. The PDF above is authoritative. For advice on your own property, use LandLens One or speak to a qualified professional.
Common questions
Does G.O. (Ms) No. 327 affect my land or property rights?
No land or property provisions appear in the document. It concerns online classes, practical work and examinations in higher educational institutions during COVID-19.
When were colleges and universities required to move classes online?
Higher educational institutions under the Higher Education Department and deemed universities were directed to conduct classes online from 23 March 2021 onwards, with six working days.
Were practical examinations allowed to continue?
Yes. Practical classes and practical examinations for science, engineering and polytechnic students were to be completed before 31 March 2021, especially for final semester students.
How were semester examinations to be conducted?
G.O. (Ms) No. 327 states that semester examinations would be online examinations.
