Sudhanshu Sharma
Shimla
The Himachal Pradesh University Teachers’ Welfare Association (HPUTWA) continued its “Save University Campaign” for the ninth consecutive day, demanding protection of the university’s autonomy, academic freedom, and democratic functioning.
At the protest held in the university campus, faculty members including Dr. Shiv Das Katoch, Dr. Joginder Saklani, Dr. Ashok Bansal, Dr. Rajesh, Dr. Sanjay Sharma, and HPUTWA President Prof. Nitin Vyas addressed the gathering.
Key Highlights from the Protest
- Dr. Shiv Das Katoch emphasized that the identity of a university lies in its independent academic decision‑making, warning against unnecessary external interference.
- Dr. Joginder Saklani urged the government to strengthen resources and facilities instead of imposing controls, prioritizing the interests of teachers and students.
- Dr. Ashok Bansal stressed that autonomy is not just administrative but directly linked to teaching, research, and academic decisions.
- Dr. Rajesh called for dialogue and institutional processes to resolve issues, cautioning against reforms that undermine independence.
- Dr. Sanjay Sharma highlighted the university’s 56‑year legacy in education and research, urging its preservation through autonomy.
- Prof. Nitin Vyas stated that the ongoing nine‑day campaign reflects teachers’ unity and commitment. He clarified that while teachers support accountability and transparency, they will not compromise on autonomy. He warned that the movement would expand if demands are not addressed.
Support from Dharamshala Regional Centre
Parallel protests were also held at the Dharamshala Regional Centre, where faculty and staff voiced support for the campaign, raising slogans such as: “Make the university accountable, not subordinate; strengthen resources, not control. Reform, but don’t snatch autonomy.”
HPUTWA’s Stand
The association reiterated that the campaign is not against any individual or institution, but solely aimed at safeguarding the autonomy, academic freedom, and institutional dignity of Himachal Pradesh University.
