DUTA braces itself against hostilities

Says varsity may disrupt hunger strike

The Delhi University Teachers’ Association, which has called for an indefinite relay hunger strike starting October 10, is expecting a retaliation from varsity officials.

“DUTA has started dealing with intimidation on a day-to-day basis now. For example, the authorities won’t let us put a tent,” said DUTA member Abha Dev Habib.

“Earlier, there have been strong reactions against any kind of protest. We are expecting it this time too,” said Habib.

“In the first phase of our agitation, we won’t strike work as we understand that exams are about to come. We have to finish the syllabus.”

In the last strike called by DUTA, a day’s salary was deducted. The teachers’ body has decided to stick to phase one strategy for now.

“If there is still no response, then we will mobilise staff associations of colleges to join us,” said Habib.

“The problem DUTA is facing now is that it doesn’t know where to go for justice. We even went to the President, hoping he will intervene as there is no place to put forward our concerns within the university system,” she added.

“In court, there is more than one case for which we are still awaiting judgement.”
The teachers’ body is seeking a dialogue with the vice chancellor regarding academic changes that are being implemented in DU.

“The VC has announced a four-year graduation programme. He is not ready to talk to the elected teachers’ body,” said another DUTA member.

“In the academic congress held last month, there was no discussion about the four-year graduation programme. But the VC told the media that discussions on the programme took place. The highest authority of the varsity is cheating and nothing is being held against him,” added the member.

Teachers are demanding to fill 4,000 vacant posts and bringing in biometric attendance system.

They also pointed out that reservations in teaching positions are being ignored despite the 2006 University Grants Commission guidelines.