Sudhanshu Sharma
Shimla
The Himachal Pradesh University Teachers’ Welfare Association (HPUTWA) has reiterated its firm stand that there can be no compromise on the autonomy and academic freedom of Himachal Pradesh University. Continuing its peaceful and democratic movement, the association emphasized the need for in-depth study and factual analysis of every provision in the proposed bill affecting university governance.
During Wednesday’s protest, speakers including Dr. Jasveer, Dr. Deep Lata, Dr. Ashok Bansal, Dr. Vinod Negi, Dr. Sunil, Joint Secretary Dr. Anjali Sharma, and Secretary Dr. Ankush Bhardwaj highlighted the importance of safeguarding the university’s institutional identity and independent decision-making capacity.
🔹 Key Points Raised:
- University autonomy is not merely administrative but the foundation of its academic excellence, research, and innovation.
- Every clause of the proposed bill must be carefully examined for its impact on academic freedom and institutional dignity.
- A broad-based dialogue involving teachers, students, alumni, retired faculty, and non-teaching staff is essential.
- Public awareness campaigns should explain the legal significance of autonomy and its link to academic independence.
- Strengthening institutional capacities, not restricting autonomy, is the way forward for addressing challenges.
Dr. Jasveer stressed the long-term implications of any changes, while Dr. Deep Lata called for inclusive participation of alumni and retired teachers. Dr. Ashok Bansal underscored autonomy as the basis of academic excellence, and Dr. Vinod Negi emphasized factual study of the bill’s provisions. Dr. Sunil described unity among teachers as the movement’s greatest strength.
Joint Secretary Dr. Anjali Sharma reminded that autonomy is tied to the academic future of coming generations, stating: “University autonomy is not just a right, but the foundation of its identity, dignity, and academic freedom.” Secretary Dr. Ankush Bhardwaj urged for wider coordination with other universities and stakeholders to strengthen the movement.
HPUTWA reaffirmed that the ongoing campaign will remain peaceful, democratic, and dedicated to the larger interests of the university community, while urging the state government to reconsider provisions that may undermine established statutory frameworks and academic independence.
