New Delhi: As the debate over the minority status for Jamia Millia Islamia rages, the Human Resource Development (HRD) ministry on Wednesday said the institution is not a minority central university.

"Among the central universities, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) which has been defined as 'the educational institution of their choice established by the Muslims of India' has been so recognised by the central government," HRD Minister Kapil Sibal said in response to a Lok Sabha question on the number of universities located in the country for minorities.
In properly guarded statement, Sibal further said, "However, the matter is sub-judice before the apex court."

Several politicians from the Muslim community have already met Sibal and Minority Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid demanding that OBC quota must not be implemented in Jamia.

Meanwhile, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has threatened to withhold grants unless Jamia keeps aside 27 percent seats for the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) from coming academic session.

As per the central government guidelines, all central universities must implement the 27 percent OBC quota but Jamia in spite of its central university status is yet to initiate the process.

-- IANS