IIT-Delhi doesn't want FIITJEE's name on metro station. Here's why
For the first time, the Magenta Line brings IIT-Delhi on the metro map with a station named after it. But the premier institute is unhappy with the current arrangement, where the name of FIITJEE, a coaching center for the IIT-JEE, has been displayed in bold on signages at the station. This has led many to believe the two have a tie-up, IIT complained.
Why is FIITJEE's name on the station?
Since 2014, the Delhi Metro has been auctioning naming rights to sponsors, both private companies and PSUs, to boost revenue. In the last four years, 43 stations have been put up for auction or renamed by sponsors, including 'Honda 2 Wheelers' Vishwavidyalaya station and 'JK Tyre' ITO station. The sponsors' names are displayed prominently on the façade of the buildings.
Why is IIT unhappy?
In the current case, IIT says FIITJEE is only a coaching center with no affiliation with it. But "the move has led to many alumni and prospective students asking us whether we have entered into collaboration with the coaching institute, which isn't fair," said V Ramgopal Rao, Director, IIT-Delhi. The institute has moved the HC, which has sought responses from Delhi Metro and FIITJEE.
Haven't done anything illegal, says DMRC
Insisting it had done nothing illegal, DMRC spokesperson Anuj Dayal said, "Since the matter is sub-judice, we shall reply after examining the issues raised." FIITJEE hasn't commented yet. But a person in the know said, "Sanctity of institutes such as IITs shouldn't be compromised for the sake of sponsors. There are other ways to raise money." The matter will be heard on July 10.
These stations are set to be renamed soon
Another 14 stations that are to be renamed similarly include the ones at Terminal 1 of the airport, Greater Kailash, Okhla NSIC, Sukhdev Vihar and Panchsheel Park on Magenta Line, and Delhi Cantonment, Bhikaji Cama Place, Moti Bagh, INA and South Extension on Pink Line.
