Registrar’s letter amid DU teacher’s protest creates further tension

Amidst teachers’ protest against the University Grants Commissions’ notification, a letter issued by the Registrar of Delhi University which directs colleges to form a panel to precede the appointments of ad-hoc teachers to the university, has added more fuel to the ongoing agitation.

“As you are aware, the new academic session is going to commence soon. Therefore, appointment of ad-hoc teaching staff is a need of the time,” a copy of letter of DU registrar, which was sent to the colleges reads.

“The university would be uploading the proforma application on Saturday for the applicants to upload their application online for the appointment as ad-hoc teachers in various colleges of DU,” the letter reads.

According to the Registrar’s letter, the panel formed by the college would look into the matter related to scrutiny of forms and appointment. While reacting on the letter, the DU Executive Council (EC) and Academic Council (AC) members have written a letter to the Vice-Chancellor, Yogesh Tyagi demanding his interference in the matter. Also a delegation comprising the Delhi University Teachers Association (DUTA) office bearers, EC and AC members of the University met the V-C and demanded withdrawal of letter.

“We condemn the letter written by the university. Any ad-hoc appointment is in contravention to the UGC norms. As per the UGC regulation, the appointment of ad-hoc staff should not cross the bar of one third of permanent teachers,” said Abha Dev Habib, an EC member. The DUTA representative, Rajesh Jha said: “If the letter is not withdrawn, the DUTA will launch a massive protest against it.”

Also, the DUTA has already threatened of boycotting the ongoing admission process in the university.

The teachers have been demanding complete roll-back of the PBAS/API (a quantified and bureaucratic method of teachers’ assessment) that has resulted in denial of any promotions for the last eight years.