London: Academicians at Cambridge University have been warned against shaking hands with Muslims or disabled people over fears of upset, a media report said on Thursday.
A directive sent by the admissions office has warned that some students are "culturally sensitive" to traditional greetings. It says "suitable body language" is just as welcoming, according to the Daily Express.
However, most tutors have termed it "ridiculous", saying the politically correct decree treats them as "social misfits".
"It seems to be totally bonkers. We know when to shake someone's hand and when not to. All this seems to be stupid and pointless and could make interviews even more awkward," one academician said.
Another said: "This is ridiculous. It would be obvious if someone objected to handshakes and we would know what to do. We don't need instructions."
IANS
First Published: Thursday, December 15, 2011, 20:36