TNR News Network
Dharamshala — The Himachal Pradesh University Teachers’ Welfare Association (HPUTWA) began a 24-hour hunger strike today, demanding urgent action on long-pending issues affecting educators across the state. Around 1 PM, faculty members gathered outside the Vice-Chancellor’s office, raising slogans and voicing their concerns.
The association emphasized that Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) promotions—an essential right for college and university teachers—have been stalled since 2022 due to a government notification. While promotions continue smoothly across other government departments, educators at Himachal Pradesh University, Sardar Patel University, Himachal Pradesh Technical University, Forestry University, and Agriculture University in Palampur have seen no career progression for the past four years.
“This delay is not only harming academic morale but also impacting university rankings,” the association stated. They demanded the immediate withdrawal of the notification halting CAS promotions.
Another pressing issue raised was the shortage of residential facilities. Out of 256 faculty members, only 80 have access to university housing. Despite available resources, the demand for constructing two new residential blocks remains unaddressed.
The association also announced plans to protest during the upcoming Executive Council meeting on September 27, where government representatives and nominated members will be present. Teachers intend to show black flags to council members as a mark of dissent.
Additional demands include the release of long-pending Dearness Allowance (DA) installments and the implementation of Child Care Leave provisions for educators.
HPUTWA urged the state government to act swiftly and address the legitimate concerns of the teaching community.
Issued by:
Dr. Nitin Vyas, President
Dr. Ankush Ji, General Secretary
