Sudhanshu Sharma
Shimla
The Himachal Pradesh University Teachers’ Welfare Association (HPUTWA) continued its “Save the University Campaign” for the 13th consecutive day, staging a massive sit-in outside the Vice-Chancellor’s office on Monday. The teachers raised strong demands to safeguard the university’s autonomy, academic freedom, and institutional dignity, emphasizing the need to strengthen its independent identity and democratic functioning.
Dr. Rakesh Kumar Negi stated that Himachal Pradesh University is not merely an administrative body but an institution built over decades of hard work, research, and academic traditions. “Its autonomy is the foundation of its effective and independent functioning,” he said.
Prof. Chandra Mohan Parshira highlighted that in its 56-year journey, the university has made significant contributions to education and research. “This is a shared legacy of thousands of teachers, staff, and students. Knowledge cannot be measured by a three-hour exam alone. Research continues day and night, and attempts to bind autonomous institutions are unjustified,” he remarked.
HPUTWA Secretary Dr. Ankush Bhardwaj stressed that teachers support accountability and transparency, but not at the cost of autonomy. “Decisions concerning the university must be taken through democratic and institutional processes,” he said.
Joint Secretary Dr. Anjali Sharma added that autonomy is not just an administrative matter but directly linked to academic freedom in teaching, research, and decision-making. “Reforms should focus on strengthening resources, laboratories, and infrastructure, not undermining independent functioning,” she asserted.
HPUTWA President Prof. Nitin Vyas said the 13-day-long campaign reflects the unity and commitment of teachers towards the university. “This struggle is not against any individual but for the dignity of the institution. It will continue peacefully and democratically,” he affirmed, while expressing gratitude to all teachers, staff, and students for their support.
Issued by: HPUTWA, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla
