Sudhanshu Sharma
The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of teachers from all four state universities in Himachal Pradesh held a crucial online meeting today to address the long-pending issue of promotions under the Career Advancement Scheme (CAS). These promotions have been effectively stalled due to restrictions imposed by the state government.
Representatives from Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla; Sardar Patel University, Mandi; Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur; and the Veterinary & Animal Sciences University participated in the meeting. The session was chaired by JAC President Prof. Janardan, with Vice President Dr. Saneel, General Secretary Prof. Nitin Vyas, and member Dr. Joginder Saklani among those present.
After detailed discussions, the committee unanimously resolved to strengthen the JAC and launch a united movement against the denial of career advancement opportunities to university teachers.
Strong Criticism of Government Restrictions
Participants sharply criticized the state government’s decision to block CAS promotions, stressing that CAS is a vital University Grants Commission (UGC)-recommended mechanism designed to ensure time-bound academic progression based on teaching, research, and scholarly contributions.
They expressed deep concern that hundreds of teachers across state universities have been deprived of their rightful promotions. In some cases, assistant professors have been waiting since 2016 despite fulfilling all eligibility criteria. This prolonged delay has caused frustration and severely impacted morale.
Impact on Academic Environment
The committee emphasized that halting CAS promotions is not only unjust to teachers but also detrimental to the academic environment. Promotions under CAS motivate faculty to pursue research, publications, innovation, and quality teaching. Denying these opportunities undermines the progress of higher education institutions.
Allegations of Discrimination
JAC members highlighted the disparity between university teachers and other state employees, noting that ministers, MLAs, and senior bureaucrats receive timely promotions and allowances, while teachers are left waiting for years. They argued that such neglect reflects a troubling attitude toward higher education.
Decision to Launch Statewide Movement
Concluding the meeting, the JAC announced a state-level movement demanding immediate restoration of CAS promotions. The committee clarified that the campaign will be democratic and peaceful but strong and effective, with coordinated participation from all four universities.
The JAC warned that if the issue is not resolved soon, teachers may be compelled to intensify their agitation through protests, sit-ins, and coordinated actions across campuses. As a last resort, they may even consider boycotting academic duties, though they stressed this would be undertaken reluctantly, given their commitment to students.
Call for Immediate Dialogue
The committee urged the state government to recognize the seriousness of the situation and initiate dialogue with teacher representatives. Restoring CAS promotions, they said, would not only rebuild trust among educators but also strengthen the state’s higher education system.
