Sudhanshu Sharma
Dharamshala
The ‘Save University Campaign’ launched by the Himachal Pradesh University Teachers’ Welfare Association (HPUTWA) continued for the 15th consecutive day, with teachers staging a strong protest demanding restoration of the Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) and protection of the university’s autonomy, academic freedom, and institutional dignity.
On Wednesday, teachers gathered outside the Vice-Chancellor’s office at 12:45 PM, raising slogans in support of their demands. Simultaneously, faculty members at the Regional Centre in Dharamshala also held a demonstration, expressing solidarity with the ongoing campaign in Shimla.
Speakers’ Highlights:
- Dr. Tanuj emphasized that autonomy is the foundation of the university’s academic identity and independent functioning. He stressed that decisions must be taken through statutory and institutional processes.
- Dr. Priyanka highlighted the crucial role of teachers in the university’s progress and called for a transparent and effective career advancement system to ensure academic growth.
- Dr. Kanwaljeet underlined the collective responsibility of preserving the university’s independent identity and dignity, urging resolution of issues through dialogue and democratic processes.
- Prof. Dooni Chand referred to statutory provisions and Acts related to autonomy, clarifying that it is directly linked to academic freedom and legal rights.
- HPUTWA President Prof. Nitin Vyas reiterated that the struggle is not against any individual but for safeguarding the university’s democratic and dignified functioning. He affirmed that teachers support accountability and transparency but will not accept autonomy being weakened in its name.
Solidarity in Dharamshala At the Dharamshala Regional Centre, teachers joined the protest, voicing demands for autonomy, academic freedom, and CAS restoration. Their participation reflected collective unity across campuses.
HPUTWA stated that the campaign is dedicated to defending university autonomy, academic freedom, democratic values, and institutional dignity. The 15th day of protests in both Shimla and Dharamshala highlighted the teachers’ determination and solidarity.
