Once again, Pre-University College Principals and lecturers have decided to boycott evaluation of II PUC answer scripts. President of Karnataka State Pre-University College Lecturers’ Association Thimmaiah Purle said in Bengaluru yesterday that they had asked the State Government to set right pay disparity, increase basic salary from Rs. 22,800 to Rs. 26,000 and implement the Kumar Naik Committee report.

He added that the meeting with Chief Minister Siddharamaiah on Mar. 3 did not help resolve issues. PU lecturers were also demanding that they be promoted to degree colleges, he added.

It may be recalled that last year, evaluation of answer scripts was delayed for two weeks following a boycott by lecturers. After this, the State Government gave them one round of increment, which the lecturers said was not sufficient. DEPT. PREPARES FOR EXAM: Meanwhile, the Department of Pre-University Education has requested the Police to secure examination centres and ensure the safety of     question papers and other confidential materials.

“We have written to DG&IGP requesting him to direct SPs in all districts to ensure security in and around exam centres. We have also sought Police protection for places where confidential material will be stored,” C. Shikha, Department Director, said. She said that the Department had requested the Police to keep an eye on people involved in question paper leaks in the past. PUC HELPLINE: PUC help lines will be operational fromMar. 6 (tomorrow) onwards, ahead of the II PUC examinations which are set to begin on  Mar. 9. Students, parents and the general public may call the helpline (080-23083900) between   8 am and 8 pm for exam-    related queries.