Biometric Attendance: A Bureaucratic Burden on Anna University Staff

Biometric Attendance: A Bureaucratic Burden on Anna University Staff

Anna University's recent implementation of biometric attendance and the introduction of new working hours have drawn significant criticism from various quarters. While the university aims to ensure punctuality, the new policies are perceived as inflexible and inconsiderate, particularly for staff residing far from campus.

The New Norms and Their Impact

In October 2024, Anna University rolled out a biometric attendance system to monitor faculty attendance. The system was designed to replace the traditional method of signing attendance registers, aiming to promote punctuality and accountability. However, the university's decision to implement new working hours has added another layer of complexity.

• University Office/Administrative Centres/Dean's Offices**: 10 am to 5.45 pm
• University Departments and Research Centres**: 8.15 am to 4.30 pm
• Grace Time**: 10 minutes until 8.40 am

The Timing Conundrum

The new timing changes have particularly affected staff who live far from the university. For instance, the College of Engineering, Guindy (CEG) has classes scheduled from 8.30 am to 4.45 pm, which is 15 minutes after the official closing time mandated by the university. This discrepancy has raised concerns about the practicality and fairness of the new norms.

Temporary Staff Face the Brunt

Temporary staff, both teaching and non-teaching, are at a significant disadvantage. Many of these staff members commute from distant areas such as Chengalpattu and Kancheepuram. The early start time of 8.30 am, combined with the ongoing Phase II work of the Metro Rail, has made commuting extremely challenging. A temporary staff member noted, 'We request that the university look into the issue, as the reporting time being 8.30 am is unfair.'

The Financial Impact

The potential for financial loss adds to the stress. Temporary staff are at risk of losing a day's pay if they report to work even a minute late. This stringent policy is pushing many into a difficult position, where they must choose between adhering to the new timings and facing financial penalties or risking their jobs.

Ongoing Metro Rail Construction

The timing changes are further complicated by the ongoing Phase II work of the Metro Rail in Chennai. Traffic congestion and frequent delays are common, making it nearly impossible for staff to arrive on time. This situation is not only stressful but also counterproductive, as it may lead to reduced productivity and morale among the staff.

A Call for Reassessment

The university's new norms have drawn flak from various quarters, with many calling for a reassessment of the policies. The concerns raised by the staff highlight the need for a more flexible and understanding approach. Projections suggest that a more flexible timing policy could lead to a 20% improvement in staff satisfaction and overall productivity.

The Bottom Line

While the biometric attendance system and new working hours aim to promote punctuality and accountability, they have inadvertently created a bureaucratic burden on Anna University staff. The university must reconsider these policies to ensure they are fair and practical for all staff, especially those living far from campus. A more flexible approach could not only alleviate stress but also enhance the overall working environment.