JNUTA

As the standoff between JNU administration and JNUSU was resolved on 12th July evening, the day JNUTA deputation consisting of more than twenty faculty members met JNU administration as well as JNUSU to impress upon both sides to resolve the issue through dialogue. JNUTA is happy to note that the issue did get resolved, yet many of the issues, which are focused in this bulletin, are still relevant. So this bulletin, as it was ready before the standoff was resolved, is being issued, without making any change.

We are addressing you in a bit of difficult time since JNUTA, is facing an onslaught by JNU administration.. You are well aware that JNUTA team started with an earnest effort to address faculty demands by drafting demand charter, which listed 45 demands. We prioritized 15 demands, focusing on housing, health; banking etc. . We held three meetings with administration and discussed all demands. Administration agreed to accept all fifteen priority demands. We even made administration agree to hold monthly review meetings about the progress made in this connection. Suddenly the campus situation worsened in February over the issue of payment of minimum wages to workers and subsequent gherao of Registrar by students. It was largely due to JNUTA efforts that students agreed to tender unconditional apology for the unfortunate incident, individually and collectively. We thought that chapter is now over and we could get back to JNUTA demand charter, but in the meantime the semester was over and the admission process started. While we were preparing to call GBM, after the reopening of University to seek its guidance to get the agreed demands implemented, again in a sudden development, some students were severely punished by the administration. This despite the fact that JNUTA President, in response to a letter by JNUSU addressed to JNUTA earlier, had sent a brief message on email to Vice Chancellor and Rector, to resolve any conflict between JNUSU and administration through the continuing process of dialogue, without expressing any opinion on the merits of either side. On request of many faculty members an emergent extended EC meeting of JNUTA was called on 25th June. As the large number of faculty was away during vacations, GBM could not be called. Even then some 25 faculty members attended this meeting and it passed a resolution, and submitted to the Rector on 27th June, by a deputation of teachers.

Frankly speaking JNUTA took no part either in administration action against students or in support of JNUSU, except that it has extended moral support to the issue of payment of minimum wages to workers and in favour of implementation of labour laws in letter and spirit. It did express its opinion through its EC, by which it deplored student action of gherao in February and deplored the severity of punishment to students in June. While the EC resolutions of February in this regard were reproduced in 2nd bulletin of JNUTA, the JUNE EC resolutions are included in this issue. It did not give a call even for a token action of support to JNUSU, yet the administration has tried to project JNUTA as partner of JNUSU. It has been spoken by Vice Chancellor at various forums that JNUTA is just ‘a handful of teachers’ and large number of teachers are with him. Vice Chancellor also claimed that there is no bar on dissent in JNU. But the way JNUTA President was told to quit as JNUTA President in order to be appointed as Centre chairman, which was due to him because of his seniority, and which, in an unprecedented action of the administration, was denied to him, as he did not succumb to administration pressure, shows the level of their ‘tolerance’ of dissent. Letter by JNUTA office bearers to VC on 28th June and, prior to appointment of Chairperson CIL and protest letter by JNUTA President on 3rd July, after his seniority was bypassed, are reproduced in the bulletin. By this unprecedented action, the intention of administration is to browbeat not only an individual, but a representative and elected body of faculty.

The fact of the matter is that this administration is totally intolerant of any view different from administration‘s. The way JNU Staff Association leaders were suspended; JNUSU has been dealt with and now JNUTA has been targeted, show the shape of things to come. This also needs to be kept in mind that the way large amount of University funds are being recklessly spent, without bothering about the basic requirements of faculty, students or staff, like need of new faculty houses, maintenance of existing houses and hostels, library requirements another academic requirements of faculty and students etc., present JNU administration does not want to be questioned on it. Since organizations like JNUTA, JNUSA, JNUOA or JNUSU can question it, they need to be silenced by creating an atmosphere of terror, which can now be felt among non teaching staff--officers and employees both, if one has a sensitivity to feel.

Friends this JNUTA team might have shortcomings as all human beings have, but it can not be faulted on transparency, whatever has been done by this JNUTA team has always been put on for public scrutiny. JNUTA webpage has all the records on it and so have JNUTA bulletins. This bulletin carries faculty responses—of appreciation as well as of criticism. I have been forwarding messages from our esteemed members through group mail to all other members and now those messages are presented here. As JNUTA President been charged with acting arbitrarily, brief response to this charge is included here. Let us assure you that JNUTA team has no ‘hidden’ agenda and it acts on the advice of its EC and GBM. As the GBM is likely to be held after reopening of University and after completion of admission process, we appeal to attend the GBM in large numbers and give guidance to your team. Please be conscious about the attempts of administration to weaken your own body-JNUTA by denigrating it. This would not only affect the dignity of JNUTA as body, it would also affect your own dignity as teacher and thinker. It may even lead to controlling your freedom of expression as well. We promise to follow your advice in letter and spirit

I have received a letter from JNUSU, informing JNUTA about the notices being issued to 11 students in concern with February incidents. Without going into the merits of JNU administration notices or JNUSU position, I should like to reiterate JNUTA position that all issues between JNU administration and JNUSU should be resolved through negotiations. Reasoned dialogue and academic well being should be the sole criteria of resolving issues in an enlightened institution like JNU.I hope the spirit of dialogue would prevail upon all other methods even in this case.

The extended emergency JNUTA executive committee meeting held on 25th June at faculty centre discussed the situation arising out of JNU administration’s sudden decision to punish eleven students including President, Secretary and joint secretary of JNUSU with rustications and fines. After elaborate discussion, the meeting unanimously resolved to strongly disapprove the administration’s decision and demanded its immediate revocation. JNUTA reiterated its moral support to the main issue of payment of minimum wages to workers on the campus.

JNUTA had earlier strongly disapproved the mode of protest adopted by JNUSU in February, which led to the gherao of Registrar. However at the suggestion of JNU administration at that time, JNUTA used its moral influence to persuade JNUSU and concerned students to tender unconditional apology for the incident and withdraw its agitation to resolve the issue, which JNUSU accepted as body, as well as at individual level. On its own, JNUTA also got JNUSU agree to adopt democratic norms and only peaceful modes of protest during their agitations. The underlying spirit of this whole process between JNUTA, JNUSU and JNU administration was that with these corrective measures, the issue will stand resolved.

In the light of this background, JNU administration’s sudden decision to punish students with rustications and fines is totally unwarranted and unjustified. JNUTA feels concerned that such arbitrary and unjustified action of the administration will alienate the entire student community and will make it much more difficult for JNUTA to exert its moral influence on students in future. This punitive action of the University administration can also destroy the overall democratic culture of dialogue and discussions in JNU. In the interest of a democratic institution based on the liberal humanist values of Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, JNUTA urges upon JNU administration to take corrective steps by immediate withdrawal of orders of punishment issued to eleven students.

Regarding the student issue JNUTA should intervene and talk to the administration to diffuse the issue, and also point out that the minimum wage issue should be addressed seriously and not brushed under the carpet
KJ Mukherjee

It seems to me that the action taken by proctor’s office is very inappropriate, as it is vacation time, and I understand from newspapers that the Vice-Chancellor is ignorant of the delegated office procedure. It seems tragic that the University community should be dragged back into the morass of all that we experienced last semester. Surely the concern of JNUTA remains human rights and legal wages on campus, and we support the students on this venture.
Susan Visvanathan

As I may be away, I would like you to take note of my opinion that I am not in favour of the rustication of the students as the students have already faced an enquiry committee and tendered their apology.
I do not condone the action of students as I think it was a serious breach of civil norms but given the fact that they have apologized I think the punishment is too harsh.
Shukla Sawant

I think the bigger problem is the desire of the students to take over the administration of the university without using the existing channels for redressal of grievances (However imperfect). Does the fact that JNUSU issues collective responsibility mean that they will be the judge and the jury at the same time? We have been through these gherao's earlier in the case of the FO and that incident lead to disastrous consequences for some unfortunate students. I think that the attempt by students to highlight the issues of national parties by disrupting the functioning of the university should be strongly resisted by the JNUTA whose job should be to maintain the academic functioning of the university. Usually, the politically connected students get away while non-political students end up paying for the sins of others. I do not think the JNUTA should intervene here except to request the university to get a signed apology from the concerned students.
Manoj Pant

Regarding the Proctorial enquiry on individual students, JNUTA must intervene and ensure that an amicable solution is brought. JNUTA may even ask for putting to rest the entire issue.
About random arrest of people engaged in civil society movement in Chhatisgarh, JNUTA should come out with a statement condemning such acts.
Bhagat (Oinam)

We have two duties towards our institution and students - i) protection of institutional norms about dissent, dialogue, and protest activities, and ii) promotion of democratic values including the need to be more and more self restrained and dignified in dealing with each other even in situations of collective representation and group conflicts. It was good that JNUTA took a leading role in creating an environment of understanding for conflict resolution. We should continue to play the same role in the context of this letter also.
It will be good to invite JNUSU delegation for presenting their side before a meeting of the extended JNUTA EC or JNUTA EC in very near future for more clarity about the picture. It should be followed by a meeting with the VC. Only then we should put our heads together for any response.
Anand Kumar

Great to read the decision of the EC of JNUTA seeking revocation of the decision and asking for min wage payments. This mail is just to reinforce and express solidarity and support for the EC decision. The revocation of the order is most urgently needed, and I am sure JNUTA will be able to get it, so as to start the session on a positive note.
Atul Sood

Students' indiscipline and their dignity problems are not JNUTA issues either. Please try to take a look around and think what faculty thinks about JNUTA. Either JNUTA should declare it an out-sourced NGO or should shape itself up for faculty issues. Please exclude myself from any future mail from JNUTA.
Uttam Pati

* I extend my full support to you. I think the JNUTA has taken an excellent stand with regard to the present crisis and I would like to congratulate you on that too.
The JNU administration has made it a habit to cover itself in shame.
It would be wonderful if JNUTA could distribute copies of recent PUDR report to its members. We can collectively hang our heads in shame.
Mohan Rao

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT JNUTA

Dear Professor Chaman Lal,

I write this open letter to express my outrage at your stance on the issue of punishment awarded to some students for their reprehensible and criminal behaviour with the Registrar of the university whom they confined in his car for nearly eight hours in public view, denying him even the basic human needs.

You have spoken against the punishment awarded to them after an enquiry held them guilty although their behaviour was in public view for hours together and did not need any further enquiring into. You have stated, among others, that you are speaking on behalf of all teachers of JNU. This is a lie and is unacceptable to large number of us. You cannot speak on behalf of all of us without consulting us through a general body meeting, particularly on issues of such grave significance. We do not share our perception of the punishment and are of the considered view that the punishment meted out to students guilty of the above mentioned criminal behaviour is richly deserved. In fact, the students got away lightly since illegal confinement is a crime in the law books and the university should have also registered a criminal case.

Since you have stated that no punishment should have been given after the students had apologized, I make the following suggestion to you-very seriously.

I would like to confine you in a car or on your scooter by tying ropes around it in full public view and disallow you even basic human needs like a visit to the loo or a glass of water. I’d suggest that you also allow me to abuse you verbally-as was done to the Registrar. After all this has been done for eight hours or so, I would tender an apology to you and to the university most gladly and most sincerely, although in the case of students it was done most reluctantly and not gladly. You and the university should then treat the matter closed and not consider initiating any punishment proceedings against me, I hope you have got my point. If not, let me elaborate for your convenient understanding. No one-let me repeat, no one-in the university should be allowed to indulge in such behaviour as was indulged in by the students irrespective of the cause one is championing or the significance of the issues involved. Confining someone illegally is a criminal offence, no matter what the issue and those who indulge in it cannot and should not be allowed to get away by tendering an apology.

Mr. President, DO NOT MISLEAD THE COMMUNITY BY SAYING THAT THEY HAVE BEEN PUNISHED FOR RAISING THIS DEMAND OR THAT ISSUE.

You have been a self-acknowledged champion of human rights. What about the human rights of the Registrar? Even when those guilty of cold blooded murders are maltreated, human rights activists protest, demanding punishment for those guilty of indulging in such violations. Why then should there not be a punishment for those students who violated the human rights of the Registrar? Or is it that there are two standards in your human rights belief system- one for the students and another for the non student community on the campus? Or is it that one forfeits once human rights after being a Registrar, or a Rector, or a Vice Chancellor, or a Chairperson, or a Dean, or simply a teacher?
I urge upon you to seek the views of all teachers through a General Body meeting when the university reopens and stop speaking in the name of all of us until then. You had done this during the last agitation of the students and had been forced to apologize. Don’t make this a habit-to do unauthorized things and then tender an apology.
JNUTA must not been used by anyone-much less its President-to justify and encourage criminal behaviour on the campus. It is the Registrar today. It may be a teacher tomorrow.

With warm regards,
Sincerely yours,
Harish Narang
Professor CES

Response to Prof. Narang’s Letter

Dear Friends
First of all, apologies for receiving bulk mail due to some technical flaw in forwarding mail from our colleagues for wider dissemination. You have been perhaps able to receive few mails in failure notice form, but that includes messages in envelope and can be seen by clicking at 'save as'.In nut shell I have received responses from Dr. Shukla Sawant, Prof. Susan Vishawnathan, Prof. Uttam Pati, Prof. Manoj Pant, Prof. Ravi Srivastva, Dr. D.K.Choubey and Dr. Atul Sood and others. Largely responses have upheld JNUTA position, but Prof. Uttam Pati has criticized JNUTA for not taking up faculty issues, so has Prof. Pant drawn attention to. However Prof. Narang has circulated an open letter to faculty, addressed to JNUTA President, harshly questioning JNUTA position. I had requested Prof. Narang to mail the letter on email, which I could myself forward to you all, however critical it could be.

Friends, whatever may be our shortcomings, this JNUTA tea can not be faulted on transparency. Whatever decisions have been taken by JNUTA EC have been faithfully reported to all faculty members through JNUTA group mail, as well as through JNUTA bulletins. I shall briefly touch allegations made by Prof. Narang in his open letter:

1. JNUTA's position on campus issues is taken by 'President only' without consulting faculty.
2. President JNUTA earlier also (Presumably in February) had taken individual position and later 'apologized'
3. Prof. Narang has also proposed to treat me like students treated Registrar, by putting me in car and binding with ropes for eight ours and then say sorry and see my response.

Many of you might have read the letter and known details. In my opinion I have put his position most objectively and my response is :

1. JNUTA President never took any position individually on campus issues, either in February or in June. I had called JNUTA EC and extended EC meetings at the earliest in both the occasions and refused to response to media queries till the time EC decisions were taken.
2. So the question of 'apology' on this question does not arise. While I do not consider apology to be a bad word at all, even my present message to you starts with an apology, yet one can not apologize for an non existent event. Many of you, who have attended Extended EC meeting in February would remember this. It was a consensus decision. Even extended EC meeting in June , attended by as many as 25 persons despite vacations, reached at the decision unanimously. The resolution adopted was
proposed by Prof. Anuradha Chenoy and approved with minor changes.
3. However funny or non serious it may appear to be, I am ready to accept Prof. Narang's proposal to put me in a car and bind with ropes and stay there for eight hours without any movement etc. Rather I propose that I need not be put in a car, I may just be made to sit on a chair in front of administration office, where Registrar car was put and tied to ropes on my body, anything like even water etc. must not be given to me, rather I will not ask for it. The chair could be even put in sun in these hot days. I promise Prof. Narang, I would not file any FIR or make any complaint to administration for these treatment, neither I would need him to say 'sorry'. I am ready to accept this treatment as a kind of 'Atonement', if it can really assuage Janab Avais Ahmad's hurt feelings and also satisfy Prof. Narang. I am not saying this to 'save' some students from some punishment. I am saying this for the sake of total JNU community. Though I am considered a bit of radical in my thought, but in practice, I am more of a Nehruvian, even Gandhian and it is in Gandhian moral spirit, I wish to accept Prof. Narang's proposal without any rancor or bitterness. It is like Gandhi went on hunger strike during Noakhali communal riots in 1946 in Bengal.

As has been responded to Prof. Pant, JNUTA GBM will be called at the earliest to discuss exclusively Faculty issues.

We are deeply disturbed to learn that Prof. Chaman Lal who is in line to be Chairperson, CIL/SLL&CS has been asked to choose between continuing as President, JNUTA or becoming the Chairperson. It has been argued by the authorities that holding both posts together would lead to a conflict of interest.

In this connection we would like to point out that while the post of Chairperson is a statutory position the post of President, JNUTA is a purely voluntary position with no statutory requirements. Therefore the Administration's insistence that Prof. Chaman Lal choose either one of the positions has no basis in the JNU Act. Further there are members of the JNUTA EC who have been Chairpersons. Even in the current EC two members are Chairpersons who have functioned without any conflict of interest between the two.

It would appear that this position is meant to ensure that Presidents of JNUTA are penalized for their political convictions by being denied statutory posts to which they are entitled due to their seniority.

It is, therefore, incumbent on the administration to reconsider this faulty perception and allow Prof. Chaman Lal who happens to be elected JNUTA President to take up the post of Chairperson to which he is entitled.

Kamal M. Chenoy, Member JNUTA EC
Raman P Sinha, Vice President, JNUTA
Charanjit Singh, Vice President, JNUTA
Anuradha M Chenoy, Former President JNUTA
M.M. Kunju, Secretary, JNUTA
Shankar Basu, Former President JNUTA
Avijit Pathak, Chairman, CSSS

Dear Friends
This is to bring to your attention that despite JNUTA team's caution to administration, of not violating norms and principles of seniority in appointing chairpersons/Deans of centres/schools, administration did precisely the same. I was targeted and punished for taking uncomfortable stand and bypassed for due chairmanship of the centre. Faculty member, junior in seniority to me has been appointed chairperson and he has taken over. Here the chairmanship is not big issue; many faculty members decline it for academic engagements. The main issue is can the administration be given a free hand to browbeat faculty for holding their views. Tomorrow even the social views of people might be targeted for punishment. JNUTA EC is meeting tomorrow to review the situation. Please think over what kind of phase in JNU, we are now entering into? The protest letter sent by me will be circulated to you after EC meeting, but briefly I can share with you that I was bluntly told to resign as JNUTA President, if I have to take up Chairpersonship of the centre. I refused to accept this suggestion, coming from administration. I would have gladly stepped down, had faculty asked me to do so.

JNUTA Executive committee’s emergency meeting held on 4/7/07 under the chairmanship of Vice-President Prof. Charanjit Singh resolved that:
1. JNUTA EC takes a serious note of JNU administration’s decision to give a go bye to the principle of seniority in the matter of appointment of Chairperson of centre, in the case of JNUTA President Professor Chaman Lal and strongly denounces it. This action of the administration is unprecedented as many JNUTA Presidents in the past had simultaneously held administrative positions. Moreover, office bearers of JNU Officers Association occupy their offices concomitantly and have never been asked to relinquish administrative positions.
2. JNUTA EC appreciates the stand taken by its President to uphold the dignity of JNUTA by choosing to remain JNUTA President rather than succumbing to pressure exerted upon him by the administration to resign from JNUTA office before being offered chairpersonship of the centre.
3. JNUTA executive committee also expressed its serious concern about administration’s lukewarm response to JNUTA demand charter. Despite the fact that all fifteen priority demands like Housing, Health, Banking and CPF/GPF being agreed to, little progress has been made so far. JNUTA EC decided to hold a GBM in the first week of August to deliberate upon these and other issues.

Faculty Responses

I just saw the emails regarding the administration's recent behaviour in the case of the Chairmanship of the centre. I want to convey my support for your stand and also regret that we are going to be in for a difficult semester. Again the resolution that was framed at the extended EC meeting regarding the rustication of the students is one that I fully support.
Kavita Singh

I entirely agree with the letter. Best wishes and congratulations on your highlyprincipled stand,
Tanika Sarkar.

Administration should have invited JNUTA to mediate, by putting the President JNUTA under pressure by withdrawing his opportunity to be chairperson of his centre, it is taking a decision for which there may be precedent, but it is not part of the democratic written rules of the JNU constitution.
Susan Visavanathan

In the meantime the faculty of Centre for the Study of Social Systems(CSSS) in its meeting on 3rd July adopted the following resolution, the copy of which was sent to the Vice-Chancellor:

“ We are deeply distressed that workers are not paid even minimum wages on the University campus. We regret that the student community that forwarded the request that the minimum wages be paid are now rusticated for one episode of indiscipline for which they apologized after a long peaceful struggle.
The Faculty Committee of CSSS urges the JNU administration to put in place legal procedure in the employment of labour in construction projects.
We ,therefore, request you to kindly consider this.

There are responses from outside the campus. Prof. Amit Bhaduri, , Shamshul Islam, Radhika Menon, Nehuta( North East Hill University Teachers Association) Shillong, Fedcuta( Fedration of Central Universities Teachers Association), DTF, Delhi University, Janvadi Lekhak Sangh, Jan Sanskriti Manch have all expressed their solidarity with JNUTA position.Messages are still coming.

The Federation of Central Universities Teachers’ Association (FEDCUTA) takes a very serious note of the draconian actions taken by the Vice-Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University against the teachers and the students of the university. The decision of the JNU Vice-Chancellor not to appoint Prof Chaman Lal as the Chairperson of the Centre of Languages because he is the duly elected President of JNU Teachers’ association is shameful and highly objectionable. This action not only flouts the laid down laws of the University but it also suggests a heinous attempt to trample upon the democratic rights of the academic community. The Vice-Chancellor has deliberately undermined the fact that while the President’s post in a teachers’ body is voluntary in nature, appointment of the Chairperson in a University Department is strictly according to the laws of seniority laid down by the University itself. The FEDCUTA strongly condemns the reprehensible attempt of the VC to coerce Prof Chaman Lal to relinquish the post of JNUTA’s President in order to be appointed as the Chairperson of CIL as it vitiates the academic atmosphere of the University. To make matters worse, the Vice-Chancellor has come down heavily on agitating students by rusticating them despite the fact that the students have submitted written apologies for their action and the earlier order of suspension against them has been revoked. These two above-mentioned actions reveal the undemocratic functioning of the JNU VC and highlight his heinous design to impose an autocratic regime by suppressing the democratic rights of the University community. The FEDCUTA warns the JNU authorities to refrain from such draconian acts, otherwise the entire teaching community of all the Central Universities would be mobilised against any move to curb the democratic rights of teachers.

(Amardeo Sharma) (Tabrez Alam Khan)
President Gen. Secretary

Message from NEHU Shillong

Last but not the least, the NEHUTA is concerned about the current repression of students and teachers by the VC, JNU. Can’t we have a national condemnation of such arm twisting by JNU Vice-chancellor

We the following faculty members are concerned about the indiscriminate/needless repairs being carried out in classrooms in the various buildings in the name of renovation/modernization. We would like to lodge our protest against such work and the waste of the public funds that this involves.

We are not against improvements in classrooms that make them functional or lead to better facilities for the students and teachers. For instance, broken furniture needs repair, lights and fans need to function propoers etc. These activities are legitimate.

We notice that the floors of the classrooms are being broken and perhaps new floors are to be put in place. This in our opinion is totally needless since floors, if maintained properly, can easily last 50 years or more. Thus, the issue is better unkeep rather than replacement.

Further, we notice that furniture (desks and benches) are being removed. It is mostly made of solid wood and metal. Most of it is still functional. It is possible that it may have suffered some damage earlier but that only needs repair. Thus, we do not think the furniture needs total replacement. It also needs better upkeep and repair.

Sir, we feel that this indiscriminate replacement of floors and of class room furniture is not necessary. It constitutes a waste of public funds. These funds can be much better utilized for many other pressing purposes. We feel that if funds cannot be adequately utilized, then they should be returned rather than be wasted through indiscriminate renovations.
We hope you will instruct the administration to not initiate such unnecessary renovation work on any other classrooms than the ones that are already in the process of being broken up.

We also hope that you will advise the administration to desist from initiating this kind of indiscriminate replacement work in any other part of the University.

S.No. Centre/School Signature
Signed by 15 teachers and forwarded by JNUTA President to administration

This is a waste of money. Why doesn't the University spend this money on buying more computers for students and teachers, and for improving the internet facilities? There are so many other better uses to which this money can be put instead of having fancy flooring.
Thank you for bringing this up with the administration.
Sudha Bhattacharya

Could you please add my name to this petition. I feel very strongly about what is happening.
Rama Baru

In response to your earlier circulation regarding the classroom renovation episode, we, at the School of Biotechnology, have been facing serious problem too. The fact is that we have an Engg Dept that is utterly inefficient and ,interestingly, the administration does not listen to anybody's problem. At our School, when I was the dean until April 24, 2007, I had written many many letters to the Engineer, The Rector and the Vice-Chancellor in regard to the numerous problems at our School; not a single problem was solved. The Engg Dept has to be completely rehauled.
May be we need a qualified, honest, Chief Engineer who would show disquiet and responsibility. We wish if you could first talk to the Vice-Chancellor in removing the present Engineer whose callousness and irresponsibility have exceeded all limits. May be you should call a GBM to discuss this issue.
Thank you.
Uttam Pati

We all remember with a sense of gratitude that a drive for rationalizing our health care system was undertaken by JNUTA during the two terms of Prof. Rupmanjari Ghosh as President. It did produce some satisfactory results and reduced the stress of JNU faculty members in the context of health needs. But there are a few aspects which need further attention.
I am writing to draw your kind attention to the existence of the following glaring gaps in our health care needs which can be easily taken care of provided there is systematic effort by us and the administration:

a) Our Ambulance is more like a transport van as it has no provision of oxygen cylinder, paramedical attendant, and other necessary equipments which are necessary for any ambulance. It needs minor investment to have the essential equipments and provision of small allowance ( Rs. 250/- per trip!) for getting a trained nurse to be available for the emergency duties in the ambulance.

b) There is no health support available anywhere inside the campus between 9pm and 7am. Not even a stethoscope, a blood pressure machine, or an ECG machine which get locked after the Health Centre is closed.

c) There is no possibility of getting a doctor to visit an ailing person at home in situations of emergency. We do not have any possibility of regular check up support for problems like blood pressure, blood sugar, ECG, at residence for an ailing person who is bed ridden.

d) We have a residence allotted to a doctor to be able to respond to any emergency need but this provision needs some updating and upgrading as it is an old provision which has become dysfunctional with the enlargement and aging of the campus population.
Let us pick up from where the last JNUTA team left and make it a little more caring system for the sick and vulnerable.

On behalf of JNUTA, I welcome the agreement reached between JNU administration and JNUSU, resulting in amicable resolution of the current crisis on campus. On behalf of JNUTA ,I wish to express our thanks to JNUSU and JNU administration for responding to our appeal to resolve the crisis through dialogue.

Chaman Lal

There will be a General Body Meeting in the first week of August. Notice for the same will be issued after the reopening of the University.

We are addressing you after some gap. In between JNUTA held two memorable functions- JNUTA Foundation Day on 21^st March, which attracted large number of Faculty members and received a lot of appreciation. On 24^th April, JNUTA held interaction with eminent Scientist Professor Yashpal, who is now Chancellor of our University on ‘Challenges facing Indian Academia’. JNUTA was first to welcome the appointment of Prof. Yashpal as Chancellor of JNU. Reports of both the functions were widely covered in the national media and are presented in this bulletin elsewhere. Apart from these functions, JNUTA continued its efforts to get its demand charter implemented. In this connection further discussions were held with JNU administration. Though there is agreement on many issues, no tangible progress is being made. The harassment of faculty and other sections of JNU continue at SBI branch on campus. Despite assurance of upgrading it to full fledged branch after renovation, Bank has gone back from its word. Other sections of JNU community should also build pressure on the Bank and administration to mitigate this problem. JNUTA has submitted a detailed proposal on expanding Public Transport system on the campus, which is included in this bulletin.

JNUTA once again congratulates Faculty on attaining its long pending demand of enhancement in superannuation age, which was notified by MHRD/UGC in March and was adopted by JNU Executive Council in April. The copy of notification is reproduced in this bulletin.

Peshawar University Teachers Association (PUTA) delegation consisting of 15 members, including three women teachers visited JNU and interacted with JNUTA and Rector Prof. Rajendra Prasad, who hosted dinner for PUTA and JNUTA. There was exchange of warm feelings on both sides.

Friends, JNUTA webpage on JNU website has been made more attractive, which now include photo gallery and many other new items. Please visit JNUTA webpage once in a while. JNUTA publications released on Foundation Day are also now available for faculty members. These include Balraj Sahni’s convocation address and JNUTA constitution. The copies can be had from President/Secretary.

Though we had thought of bringing JNUTA Bulletin every month, due to pressure of many things it has not been possible to continue with monthly schedule. Next bulletin will appear after vacations and further JNUTA bulletins will also appear as and when necessary. We have also not been able to continue with the monthly meetings of the Writers Forum, partly due to the lack of enthusiasm on the part of faculty. We do hope in the next semester the situation will improve.

Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers Association organised interaction with JNU Chancellor and eminent scientist Prof. Yashpal, focussing upon the theme-‘The challenges facing Indian Academia’.

Welcoming Prof. Yashpal, JNUTA President Prof. Chaman Lal described him as ‘people’s scientist’, who made common people understand science in their own language and demystifying science as something of an obscure system. Prof. Chaman Lal expressed his concern about desensitization of society towards its academia, intelligentsia, writers and creative artists and people running after material comforts and money at the cost of human values of sharing and compassion. Keeping in view its social concerns, he said JNUTA decided to hold this discussion, the idea of which came from Prof. Yashpal himself.

Initiating the discussion Professor Yashpal said that it was a strange coincidence that on one side science was getting popularised, on the other hand the number of astrologers were also increasing alarmingly. He said that the science needs to be used for the betterment of human conditions. He wondered that though almost everyone knew that there were no weapons of mass destruction in Iraq, yet on this excuse, a whole nation was destroyed. Prof. Yashpal said that India is a nation of diversity and this diversity should be celebrated. He also said that education should not concentrate just on creating experts; rather the holistic human personality should be the aim of true education. Prof. Yashpal complimented JNU and its scholars for their enlightened and socially concerned ideas.

The discussion continued with Prof. Arun Kumar presenting the theme paper for further discussion. He emphasised upon the democratisation of education system and bringing rationalism in its design. Prof. Rekha V Rajan focussed upon the effects of globalisation on the teaching of foreign languages. Prof. Avijit Pathak spoke about the need to understanding natural, social and cultural phenomenon through the ideal of a university. He said that market pragmatism and technical hegemony was overshadowing the humanist aspects of pedagogy. He referred to Sartre as dialogical intellectual and as a role model for academia. Prof. Rupamanjari Ghosh spoke about the need of vision in teaching and research. Prof. Kamal Mitra Chenoy underlined the fact that academia has not performed its role in making society aware about the need of education for backward and oppressed sections of society. Prof. P.K. Yadav referred to the tradition of Budha for enlightenment.

Prof. A. K. Mohanty. Dr. Madhav Govind, Prof. B.C.Tripathy and Dr. Vivek Kumar participated in the discussion. In his concluding remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. B.B.Bhattacharya said that with the changes in social set up, individuals also get changed. He said that market in its true form was not yet accepted in India, but he emphasised that no one is immune to the effects of market.

Discussion concluded with the vote of thanks by convenor, seminar committee of JNUTA, Dr. Vivek Kumar.

Subject;- Enhancement in the age of superannuation from 62 to 65 years for teaching positions in centrally funded institutions in higher and technical education ( only operative part is being given here)

(1) The age of superannuation of all persons who were holding teaching positions on regular employment against sanctioned posts as on 15.3.2007 in any of the centrally funded higher and technical educations under this Ministry shall be increased from present 62 years to 65 years.

(2) Persons holding such regular teaching positions who have superannuated prior to 15.3.2007 on attaining the age of 62 years, but have not attained the age of 65 years may be reemployed against vacant sanctioned teaching positions till they attain the age of 65 years, in accordance with the guidelines framed by the UGC

(3) All persons holding teaching positions against sanctioned posts may also be considered for reemployment beyond 65 years and up to the age of 70 years against sanctioned vacant posts, if such posts are not filled up by regular candidates. However such reemployments beyond the age of 65 years shall be done only after screening at the age of 65 years, under the extant guidelines of the UGC.

It is further clarified that the enhancement of retirement age as mentioned above under the provisions for reemployment, will apply only to persons in teaching positions against posts sanctioned to Central funded higher and technical education institutions coming under the purview of this Ministry, in order to overcome the shortage of teachers.

(The UGC has already issued notification and JNU Executive Council has already adopted it.)

The Problem ;- When the University started functioning in the new campus in the late 1970’s , the place was initially connected with the city by three bus services. route # 615 to Minto road, connecting the campus to Munirka, old campus, S.N market, Safdarjung airport, Janpath and CP, route # 666+ and 666- two circular routes in clockwise and anti-clock wise directions touching old campus Munirka, R.K.Puram, Naouroji Nagar, Safdarjung, AIIMS, Green park, I.I.T and Old campus and vice-versa.

Later, the campus was further connected by extending 3 more sevices (507 ,621 and 603) to Poorvanchal hostel giving a direct connection to Lajpat Nagar, Jamia Milia (507).,ITO and ISBT(621) R K Puram,MotiBagh, Patel Chowk Mandi House ,ITO and ISBT(603) .But the DTC withdrew its sevices of 666+ and 666-.and 603 citing shortage of buses. Later the pvt operators of 507 and 621 also withdrew the extended part by terminating their buses at Munirka.

Meanwhile, the University has been growing very fast with more and more Schools, Hostels, Offices, Rly Reservation counter, Kendriya Vidyalaya, Academic Staff College, Shopping complex, and more than thousand residential houses. Being a residential university, today the campus got 18 hostels with student strength of about 5000 and a non-student population of another 5000 consisting of teachers, staff and their families, floating population of workers engaged in various activities etc. Within the next three years the population will be doubled with the intake of another 54% students and necessary staffs

Despite, all these developments, increasing the campus population into many folds, the public transport service in the campus remained very minimal. Today, virtually the campus got only one bus service of Route # 615 and an irregular single trip of 507 in the morning and evening. This service of 615 mostly run by the pvt operators is also in a very unsatisfactory position as the buses skip their trips in the morning, evening and holidays. These buses are irksomely very slow taking about 30 minutes to reach old campus and 75 minutes to Minto rd.

In the light of these acute transport problems, the JNUTA request the University to take up the issue with the concerned authorities

(a) Re introduce the route # 666 connecting the campus to Munirka, R K Puram I,Safdurjung, Lodhi Rd and Nizamudeen rly stn. This route will be very useful for hundreds of commuters as there is no bus service available in this route after the diversion and extension of R 623 to Shahadra.

(b) Restore the extent ion of R 507 and 621, giving the campus a direct connection to I I T ,AIIMS and Jamia University.

(c) Reintroduce the R 603 from Vasant Kunj, touching the JNU North Gate, Munirka R.K.Puram,Teen Murthi ,C P , Kamala Mkt and Chandni Chowk Metro station,. Such a service will be highly helpful for the staff working in Nuclear Science Centre, ICSSR, Institute of Mass Communication,Institute of Immunology and other institutions in the Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, JNU, Munirka DDA flats,Munirka Vihar and Munirka Enclve as there is no bus route exist in this route even after the widening of this road.

(d) The DTC outer Mudrika route can also be diverted thr Baba Ganga Nath Marg, touching JNU gate and then joining its orginal route at Munirka without adding any extra distance,and losing any passengers but only serving more colonies and easing the traffic jam at outer ring road in Munirka.

Condidering the campus security and environmental problems, the University should consider opening of a new bus terminal in the Baba Ganga Nath Marg near KV and then close the North Gate to all public transport buses.

Request the Transport Dept and DTC to terminate the bus route of 507, 603 615 ,621 and 666, at this new terminal and add more buses connecting the nearby Metro Stations.

The University should start a feeder service from Poorvanchal to this new terminal. A nominal fare of Rs 2 or 3 May be charged without giving any concessions to any sections to cover the operational cost of the feeder service.

Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers Association (JNUTA) in its executive committee meeting has greeted the nation on its 150^th year celebration of Indian freedom struggle which began on 10^th May, 1857. JNUTA feels that this massive movement of Indian people against British colonial rule is a glorious chapter of Indian history, when both Hindu and Muslim community, under the leadership of Bahadur Shah Zafar fought a nation wide war to free the country from British yoke. Though the freedom struggle did not succeed, yet it paved the way to long march for attaining it in 1947. JNUTA felt the need to revive the same spirit of communal amity and patriotic feelings among people to preserve the democratic structure and freedom of the country. In this context JNUTA expressed its deep concern at the disturbing communal happenings in the various parts of the country, which include communally charged and extra judicial killings of people in Gujrat. Particularly disturbing case is of killing of Kauser Bi,brutal attacks on Christian priests in Rajsthan and Maharashtra, burning of James Laine’s book on Shiva Ji, after the ban was lifted by High Court, attack on renowned artist M.F.Hussain, and harassment of inter religiously married young couples in M.P. by communal fascist forces. JNUTA demands strongest action against these communal forces, disturbing the social harmony of our society.

JNUTA demanded that Shahabudin, who has been convicted for life in kidnapping case, should be removed from Lok Sabha as member. JNUTA also demanded that the other cases including the murder case of former JNUSU President Chandarshekhar pending against him, should be expedited and justice be done at the earliest.

JNUTA expressed its deep concern about the incidents in Nandigram and other parts of the country due to SEZ policies of Central and state Govts., which brings lot of suffering to peasants and other rural people. JNUTA demands proper compensation to the people, who have suffered due to these policies and incidents. The CBI enquiry in Nandigram case should also be made public.

This meeting, held after more than two months of the first meeting,was presided by the Rector, Prof Rajendra Prasad. The meeting, first, took the issue of actions taken on the earlier decisions.

JNUTA raised the issue of reemployment of teachers, particularly the case of Prof. O.P.Bakhshi, in the light of recent notification of MHRD/UGC, raising the superannuation age of teachers. It was reported that SIS had already recommended his case again. After some discussion, it was agreed that positive steps would be taken in this regard.

On the issue of fixing interviews in case of CAS promotions, the difficulties faced by administration were reported.

On the issue of banking services, after elaborate discussion, it was suggested that SBI’s response may be awaited for some more time, before going in for another Bank branch. Everyone agreed that Banking services are very poor and need to be improved at the earliest.

It was reported by the administration that Grievance redressal mechanism would be notified soon.

On health care, it was informed that a report has come, which needs to be looked into. JNUTA representatives would look into the report and health committee may visit other central institutions also. Dr. Gautam Patra would be attached to the committee as advisor.

About the disposal of old Library stocks, concern was expressed by JNUTA that many valuable books might have been lost in this process. It was agreed to hold Library committee meeting at the earliest and all these matters should be routed through Library committee.

Fax Machine and Scanner would be provided for JNUTA office and renovation of three rooms would also be done.

JNUTA expressed its concern over the inordinate delay in allotment and occupation of houses, particularly in the view of acute shortage of houses.

Administration reported that auto stand is not getting functional because non cooperation of auto drivers. JNUTA expressed its concern over the misbehaviour of auto drivers with faculty and other communities in JNU.

Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers Association (JNUTA) accorded a hearty welcome to a delegation of Peshawar University Teachers Association. The delegation, consisting of 15 members, including three women teachers, was on a visit to Indian Universities. Apart from JNU, the delegation also visited BHU in Benars and Kolkata University, Kolkata. The visiting faculty members from Peshawar held interaction with the teachers associations of JNU and Jamia Milia Islamia. In a joint meeting of the two associations at JNU, it was reiterated to have SAARC Universities Teachers Association. In the wake of increasing cooperation among SAARC countries, Peshawar University Teachers Association (PUTA) and JNUTA had made a joint move in this regard in 2004, when PUTA had visited JNU with a larger delegation. The joint meeting was addressed by Dr. Mukhtar Durrani, President PUTA, Prof. Chaman Lal,President JNUTA, Dr. Afridi, Secretary, PUTA and Prof. P.K.Yadav, former President of JNUTA and co-signatory to appeal for SAARC Universities Teacher Association. Prof. Varyam Singh, Prof S K Jha, both former JNUTA Presidents, Prof. Zahida from PUTA and Dr. Vidhu from JNUTA also addressed the joint meeting. Teachers from both Universities emphasised upon the visa relaxation for visiting SAARC countries. Relaxation of visa conditions for teachers by Indian Govt. in recently held SAARC summit was welcomed, but it was suggested that visa conditions for professionals should be altogether abolished, as in the case of India and Nepal. Later JNUTA and PUTA were invited for dinner by Rector Prof. Rajender Prasad.

JNUTA team participated in March to Parliament at the call given by AIFUCTO to focus upon issues concerning national policies on education at all levels. JNUTA President Prof. Chaman Lal addressed the rally and assured JNUTA support to the cause of education

Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers' Association has supported 33 per cent reservation for women in the Parliament and State Assemblies.

A release issued by the Association said at a recent meeting, the resolution was adopted in the category of expressing opinion on social issues.

"On the occasion of International Women's Day when Parliament is also in session, JNUTA appeals to all political parties to pass the bill on women's reservation and take another step towards democratization of Indian society," JNUTA president Chaman Lal said.

JNUTA appeals to its members to share with JNUTA History committee/President information regarding former Presidents/Secretaries since its formation on 21^st March 1973. JNUTA team is planning to make JNUTA Foundation Day on 21^st March as an annual event. We will like to invite all former Presidents/Secretaries on this occasion to share their experiences and also to give suggestions to strengthen JNUTA

Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers Association(JNUTA) held a seminar in its Seminar Room to discuss XIth plan for JNU. The seminar was held in two sessions, first being devoted to the needs of the University and the IInd focussed upon Expansion and Adaptation, which included discussion upon 27% reservation as well. The seminar was well attended and continued for more than four hours.

In the first session, Prof. Arun Kumar introduced the theme and moderated discussion. Prof. Arun Kumar emphasised upon JNUTA’s role in formulating faculty opinion about the plan, which is being discussed at official level as well. He said while formulating the plan, philosophical understanding of higher education as given JNU preamble, must not be overlooked. He suggested that rather than 6% of GDP, there should be 10% of GDP spending on education. He also emphasised that expansion in number of seats should not affect the quality of education. Prof. Arun Kumar focussed upon the need for democratic discussion on the eleventh plan .

Prof. Anil Bhatti spoke about the need of keeping care of social sensitivities and interdisciplinary studies in future planning of academics in JNU. He also underlined the need of conducive atmosphere to attract and retain talent by decentralising the administrative structure. Prof. Santosh Kar spoke about the interaction between Faculty and students, which has decreased over the years. He wanted that job security should be ensured to the students pursuing higher education. Prof. Kamal Mitra Chenoy emphasised upon remedial courses, particularly in English language for the students coming from poorer and rural background, so that they could cop up with the advanced studies.

IInd session, held under the chairmanship of Varyam Singh, began with a presentation by Prof. Anand Kumar, who spoke about the new challenges being faced in the arena of higher education, particularly in the context of proposed 54% increase in number of seats to implement 27% reservation for O.B.C. He cautioned against instant increase in the number of seats, which could adversely affect the quality of education, although he said it was historical imperative to accept the inclusion of backward sections in higher education.

Rector of the University, Prof. Rajender Prasad, in his intervention, underlined the fact that the concept of autonomy of university was a myth, as the money bags were controlled by Government, which issues orders to be implemented. He spoke about problems faced by administration in implementing certain orders of the Govt. Dr. Chandershekhran, Academic Coordinator, presented the data of students and read excerpts from gazette notifications issued by GOI for implementing OBC reservations.

Dr. Andrew Lyn underlined the need for dignified treatment for faculty, in terms of providing them good houses and infra-structural facilities for academic work.

Prof. B.C.Tripathy, Prof. B.N Malik, Dr. Hemant Adlakha, Dr. Neelika, Dr. Rohan,Dr. Malakar, Prof. P.K.Pandey, Prof. Harjit Singh, Prof. Kulkarni, Dr. Raman Sinha participated in the discussion.

Summing up the discussion, Prof. Chaman Lal, President, JNUTA presented JNUTA executive committee resolution for approval, which was approved with minor modification. The resolution wants the complete data to be made available in terms of seat increase, there should be no compromise with the quality of imparting education, there should be proportionate increase in infra-structure and Faculty and finally by ensuring 27% reservation for OBC from very first year, phased expansion may be done in the number of seats.

1. Setting up of UGC Pay Committee for revision of pay scales in continuation of VIth Central Pay Commission, and parity of pay-scales with IIT/IIM faculty

2. Reemployment to all retiring teachers upto the age of 65 till the implementation of the MHRD/UGC proposal for enhancing the retirement age to 65 in Central Universities.

3. Promotion under CAS and re employment process should begin six months/one year in advance and to be completed within reasonable time.

6. An effective Grievance Redressal Mechanism for teachers and research staff with a JNUTA representatives included at all levels.

Health & Housing

7. Improvement in existing health care with the addition of facilities for alternative medicines and lab and adoption of IIT model of full-fledged hospital.

8. A more viable health care scheme with medical facilities for all serving and retired faculty, wherever they might be living after retirement.

9. One master priority list for house allotment, name to be entered at entry point.

10. Construction of more type IV & V houses; at least addition of five houses in each category every year

11. Strengthening of public transport system in the campus by restoring the University bus to Teen Murti, Sapru House and getting more DTC busses to Jamia Millia and DU, connecting RK Puram, AIIMS, ITO etc.

13. Proper banking facilities in the campus urgently, SBI branch to be made fully functional or a branch of another bank to be opened.

14. A committee with a senior faculty member as chairperson to oversee the working of the Engineering Department.

15. Allotment of the remaining space to JNUTA to convert the faculty centre to make the building a full-fledged Faculty Activity Centre with recreational activities and a good cafeteria

Vice-Chancellor welcomed JNUTA EC in first formal meeting to discuss JNUTA charter of demands. After a while, he went back to selection committee meeting, already in progress and the discussions were held with Rector and other officials. All fifteen demands prioritized by JNUTA were discussed in detail and following decisions were arrived at.

1.The issue of Prof. O.P. Bakhshi’s reemployment was raised and it was decided that it would be discussed with VC separately later.

2. It was resolved that demands relating to UGC and MHRD would be referred to these bodies with positive comments from JNU administration. These demands are listed as no.1,2 and 5.

3. Rector assured that there would be no delay on the part of administration to process promotion cases under CAS.

4. Rector and Registrar explained that representation to Faculty exists in the case of Academic Council and Court, in the form of three faculty members each from all the categories—Asst. Profs. , Asso. Profs. And Professors, are taken from all schools on these bodies by rotation, on the basis of seniority. However it was agreed upon that JNUTA President and Secretary should also be regular members of these bodies and not just invitees. To make a change in this regard, the matter would be referred to MHRD.

5. The discussion on Grievance redressal mechanism is going on and is at advance stage. JNUTA will be shown the final form of recommendations in this regard, before being implemented.

6. It was also agreed that JNUTA representatives on all University committees would be treated as full-fledged members and not special invitees.

7. In case of better health care, it was agreed upon that JNUTA committee consisting of Prof. P. Sahadevan and Dr. M C Paul would visit Central Educational institutions in Delhi, such as IIT, DU etc. and submit its report and recommendations to JNUTA and University authorities, within 2-3 weeks and it would be deliberated upon. Dr. Gautam Patra would be officially attached to this committee by the administration as advisor.

8. On the issue of housing, JNUTA demand for master priority list was accepted in HAC meeting held on 13/2/07, at JNUTA initiative. However a functional priority list will also exist side by side to facilitate option. Regarding construction of more number of houses, Registrar explained that University has already submitted a proposal for funds to build two hundred more houses for the Faculty. It was agreed upon that these houses would be of only one type.

9. On public transport system, JNUTA proposal was accepted in principle. However, JNUTA would send the details of requirements in this regard.

10. JNUTA demand of Disaster management cell was accepted and the modalities in this regard are being worked out.

11. On Banking problem, JNUTA view points were well received. JNU administration is trying to get present SBI branch make fully functional from April onwards. JNUTA suggestion to get another branch of a nationalised was also given due consideration. In course of time JNU campus might have three ATMs in all areas.

12. Preliminary discussion to improve the functioning of Engineering branch took place.

13. Regarding JNUTA building issue, Rector and Registrar along with JNUTA representatives would visit the place to suggest necessary improvements.

Discussions were held in cordial atmosphere. Further discussions on remaining demands of the charter would be taken up in subsequent meetings to be held in March and April.

At the initiative of President JNUTA, a joint meeting of Presidents and Secretaries of six democratically elected associations of JNU was held on 6/2/07.JNUSU was represented by its joint Secretary Jyotsna. After deliberations in friendly atmosphere, this meeting took following decisions.

Campus Situation

JNUTA would like to express its concern over recent events in campus particularly on Feb 19, 2007. We believe some of these events represent an aberration from the democratic culture of JNU. In this regard, the JNUTA EC met in an emergency meeting on Feb 20, 2007 and unanimously passed the following resolution.

JNUTA EC resolution on Kamleshwar

JNUTA executive committee meeting in its meeting held on 31/01/07 expressed deep sorrow at the sudden passing away of eminent Hindi writer Kamleshwar, who, by his fiction writing and editing of journals like’ Sarika’, ‘Ganga’ etc. had enriched not only Hindi literature, rather Indian literature as a whole. Kamleshwar scripted many films and Television programmes as well ,which are socially relevant.

JNUTA EC feels that the demise of Kamleshwar is not only loss of Hindi literature,it is loss of progressive Indian literature as a whole. JNUTA expresses its sincere condolences to the bereaved family members of Kamleshwar.

The extended JNUTA EC meeting with the former Presidents and Secretaries of JNUTA, held on 26/02/07 expressed its deepest concern at the prevailing situation on the campus and resolved that:

Teachers appeal to VC on 27-02-07 (forwarded by JBUTA)

We write this about the incident and gherao of Mr. Avais Ahmed on 19^th February 2007 outside the Administrative Block. We believe that the incident was a violation of the democratic principles and free and fair atmosphere of the University. The JNU Teachers Association has repeatedly expressed its deepest concern about the situation on Campus and deplored the action of those who indulged in these activities. The JNUTA has also appealed that normalcy on the Campus be restored through peaceful negotiations.

We were happy to note that the JNU Students Union and JNU Staff Association have also expressed its regret and criticized the mode of protest adopted on the 19^th. It is with this in view that we appeal to the University Administration to deal with the issues in a humane manner and on an urgent basis. We urge that the suspension on the students and employees be revoked immediately to pave the way for peaceful settlement of the issue.

FEDCUTA Report

Fedcuta delegation, including JNUTA President &Secretary met Joint Secretary MHRD, Sh. Sunil Kumar on 27/02/07 and discussed 13 point charter of demands with him Demands include superannuation age to be increased to 65, setting up UGC pay committee etc. Talks were held in cordial and business like manner and the progress on various demands was explained by Jt. Secretary. JNUTA also submitted its letter for Minister MHRD and sought an appointment with Minister/Secretary to discuss JNUTA demands. Meeting is likely to materialise in mid-March.

FEDCUTA executive committee meeting was held in Jamia Hamdard University on 28-2-07 under the chairmanship of Dr. Amar Dev Sharma President FEDCUTA&DUTA. Last meeting was held in September ’06, in which no one from JNUTA participated. This time President&Secretary both participated. Many issues were discussed. It was decided to form committees at the level of all university associations to suggest terms of reference and other suggestions including demands for proposed UGC pay committee and to discuss and form opinion on Knowledge commission report.

FEDCUTA strongly condemned the circular issued by BHU authorities gagging freedom of expression and participation in political or democratic activities by Teachers. FEDCUTA also demanded immediate restoration of BHU elected Teachers Association, which does not exist as of today due to the terror of BHU authorities.

Report On ‘Meet the Writer’ programme organised by JNUTA Writer’s Forum

JNUTA Writers Forum organised a programme for their faculty members, Meet the Writer on Wednesday, 31st Jan 2007, 5pm at Committee room of JNUTA. Senior Faculty member from School of Arts & Aesthetic and noted poet & dramatist Prof. H. S. Shivprakash and young historian Ms Jyoti Atwal from Centre of Historical Studies, SSS were the main speakers of the programme. H. S. Shivprakash delivered a popular talk on ‘ Traditional Theatre in India ’ and Jyoti Atwal discussed the question of Hindu widow in colonial India. The programme was preside by the noted academician and writer Prof. Anvita Abbi (SLL&CS).

Before the talk JNUTA felicitated Prof. Shankar Basu (Centre of Russian studies, SLL&CS) for the receipt of ‘Order of Friendship’ given by Russian President Vladimir Putin in recognition of his achievement and contributions in the field of Russian language/studies. In the welcome address JNUTA president Prof. Chamanlal described the initiative of JNUTA regarding meet the writers programme and Prof. Basu’s achievements in his area of his studies. Dr. Devendra Choubey, one of the Coordinator of Writers Forum programme presented the brief history and activity of the forum since 2004.

JNUTA Press Release on Reservation for Women

JNUTA Executive committee in its meeting has supported 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies. The resolution was adopted in EC in the category of expressing opinion on social issues. On the occasion of ‘International Women Day’ on 8^th March, when Parliament is also in session, JNUTA appeals to all political parties to pass the long pending bill on women’s reservation and take another step towards democratisation of Indian society.

FEDCUTA also endorsed the call of AIFUCTO to participate in ‘March to Parliament’ on 12^th March 2007, to focus upon issues relating to education. JNU teachers are also requested to participate in this march in large numbers.

The new team started its activities with a happy note that the long standing demand of 60 odd faculty members for a correction of administrative error, of conversion from CPF to GPF scheme has finally been accepted by the University Executive Council on 29/11/06. This has given a great relief to these faculty members, some who have retired already, and some of those who are on the verge of retirement. JNUTA extends its gratitude to all the members of University Executive Council for this very positive decision which has given a sense of social security to these teachers.

As you know the Annual General Body meeting of JNUTA took place on 18/1/07. In this meeting Secretary and Treasurer's Reports for year 2005-06, and the Statement of Accounts were presented and approved after discussion, with some modifications. President JNUTA, Prof. Chaman Lal thanked outgoing President Prof. Rupamanjari Ghosh and her team. In a largely attended GBM, the new team first sought the approval of nine members, including some office bearers, particularly Treasurer, who were co-opted to EC. After this approval, the new team presented its 37 point demand charter. After elaborate discussion the demand charter was passed with the addition of five more demands and with some modifications in few demands. The GBM approved charter of demands, has been included in this bulletin. We have to work very hard, even to get some of these demands accepted and implemented, for which your active participation in JNUTA activities and meetings is a must.

On behalf of Executive committee, we can assure you that we are trying to streamline our functioning. We are holding regular meetings of EC and we have taken certain decisions such as:

1. There is no record of past activities of JNUTA teams. JNUTA was formally came into being in march 1973. We wish to bring on record the short history of JNUTA activities since its inception 34 years ago. A history committee consisting of Prof. Kamal Mitra Chenoy (convenor) and Prof. Anand Kumar and Prof. P.K.Yadav, all former JNUTA Presidents has been formed. Please share whatever information in this regard you have with this team, as well as with JNUTA office. In fact not only do we need to know the names of former team, leaders even the past records of JNUTA activities/proceedings are not with us. We appeal to all the former Presidents and Secretaries of JNUTA to help us in locating these records, so that these can be preserved for future reference. It will help the team to perform its task expeditiously. We wish to print this short history, as well as put it on JNUTA webpage. We wish to bring on record at least the names of all former Presidents and Secretaries, to be put on boards in JNUTA office.

2. JNUTA EC has also formed a Seminar Committee, with Dr. Vivek Kumar as convenor and Prof. Arun Kumar and Dr. Rizwan as members. The seminar committee is planning its first seminar on XIth plan, including discussion on OBC reservation, in the first week of February. The discussion on OBC reservation could not be completed in GBM, due to paucity of time, so the JNUTA position on the issue remains undefined till today. However JNUTA's position will be formulated in the light of discussion of this seminar, this was resolved by the GBM. So please attend this seminar in large numbers and share your views with each other to reach at an enlightened response to the plan and reservation issue.

3. JNUTA is trying to make its three office rooms functional, which are lying unutilised and in a bad shape. JNUTA is planning to convert one room as the place for holding EC and other smaller meetings, another room for secretarial work and yet another as record room. We have written to University officials to renovate the rooms and provide necessary infra-structure like computers/printers/copier etc and secretarial manual help. The present hall would be redesigned as Seminar room, which will hold GBMs seminars, get-together and other functions.

4. JNUTA office will be kept open for Faculty to come and share their views/complaints/problems, even to chat for a while. Some magazines etc would also be kept there in due course of time. On a trial basis, the office would be kept open for a day or two in the beginning.

1. Setting up of UGC Pay Committee for revision of pay scales in continuation of VIth Central Pay Commission, and parity of pay-scales with IIT/IIM faculty

2. Reemployment to all retiring teachers up to the age of 65 till the implementation of the MHRD/UGC proposal for enhancing the retirement age to 65 in Central Universities.

3. Promotion under CAS and re employment process should begin six months/one year in advance and to be completed within reasonable time.

6. An effective Grievance Redressal Mechanism for teachers and research staff with a JNUTA representatives included at all levels.

7. Adequate facilities for teachers for refresher courses, for whom it is necessary for, no promotion should be delayed in case the facilities are not available in time and it may be waived in view of the academic quality of JNU Teachers.

9. Transparent mechanism for acquisition of books and journals and regular meeting of Library. Committee with faculty members from all Schools.

10. Separate fund to be created for the individual purchase of books by Faculty members for their teaching/research needs, which shall be deposited to the library later.

11. Better working conditions for the wardens with enhanced honorarium and protection.

12. Career Advancement Scheme for DOs, ROs, RAs with the restoration of academic staff status.

13. A laser-printer to all faculty members and Xerox and Fax machines for all Centres.

14. Improvement in existing health care with the addition of facilities for alternative medicines and lab and adoption of IIT model of full fledged hospital

15. A more viable health care scheme with medical facilities for all serving and retired faculty, wherever they might be living after retirement.

17. One master priority list for house allotment, name to be entered at entry point.

18. Construction of more type IV & V houses; at least addition of five houses in each category every year

19. To address the problem of acute shortage of houses for new faculty; any kind of accommodation be provided to all needy teachers.

20. Time-bound repair, allotment and occupation of vacant houses as per priority list.

21. Allotment of VC quota houses only in exceptional cases and once in service time to a teacher; not to keep houses under VC quota for a long time

22. VC quota of houses to be restricted to one in twenty houses, in the faculty category.

24. Strengthening of public transport system in the campus by restoring the University bus to Teen Murti, Sapru House and getting more DTC busses to Jamia Millia and DU, connecting RK Puram, AIIMS, ITO etc.

25. Installation of proper guide maps and signage, strict implementation of 25km speed limit, shading of speed breaker bumps.

26. An auto stand with 3-5 vehicles near north gate, under the supervision of security staff.

27. A high level environment-expert committee to look after the protection of green belt of the campus.

28. Repair of roads, construction of new foot-path from North Gate to Poorvanchal and K.V. to Stadium.

29. CDC is to be split into two for better development and maintenance of the campus and consumer protection.

30. The decisions of all committees to be strictly implemented in time-bound manner.

32. Make the Campus free from the scare of stray dogs and other dangerous animals. ( Explanation-There have been alarming rise in the number of dog bite cases on the campus, which need to be addressed urgently and rationally, there have been cases of ferocious bull fights near Tapti hostel, scaring the kids and old alike, also in view of the fact that a large number of blind and other physically challenged students are also living on the campus.)

33. Proper security wall around the camps, better patrolling, maintenance of street lights

34. Proper utilization of parking lots, parking space for TH, WF and new Type-IV houses.

35. Allotment of the remaining space to JNUTA to convert the faculty centre to make the building a full-fledged Faculty Activity Centre with recreational activities and a good cafeteria.

36. More facilities to the JNUTA office- renovation of rooms, part time typist and peon.

37. Proper banking facilities in the campus urgently, SBI branch to be made fully functional or a branch of another bank to be opened.

38. Enhancement of stationary/contingency fund from the existing Rs. 500 to Rs 1000 per semester. Remove the condition that the stationary should only be purchased from Kendriya Bhandar and other govt. agencies.

39. Children’s park in each Khand/A scheme for making a park in the quadrangle for the residents and its preservation by the residents like the MCD scheme ‘own your park’.

40. Increase TWF aid from Rs. 15000 to- Rs. 30000/- to the member/family for death related expenses.

41. A committee with a senior faculty member as chairperson to oversee the working of the Engineering Department.

Every year along with JNUTA elections, two faculty members are elected to the GSCASH. But this year, no faculty nomination was received for GSCASH Hence, JNUTA had to arrange a new schedule for the GSCASH elections this month, and two faculty members,

JNUTA congratulates the new members and extends all possible help to Gender sensitization against Sexual Harassment in the Campus.

Apart from its high academic concerns, JNU as a whole and JNUTA in particular is known for taking stands/expressing view on various social issues, concerning our society at national or international level. Continuing with that tradition,JNUTA EC is expressing its views on social issues in almost every meeting. Till now, we have passed our resolutions of concern on issues such as:

Many of these resolutions have been highlighted in the media like--The Hindu,Indian Express,Times of India, Statesman, Tribune,Pioneer, Hindustan(Hindi), Navbharat Times, Jansatta, Amar Ujala, Dainik Bhaskar, Jagran etc

We are deeply shocked and concerned to learn that Prof. O.P.Bakshi a senior Professor of the Group of Comparative Politics and Political Theory has been denied reemployment. We \yould like to reiterate the JNUTA'S position that all faculty colleagues should be given re-employment as a matter of principle, which is one of the major demand of this year's JNUT A demand charter also.

Prof. Bakshi is a particularly strong candidate for reemployment. For sixteen years he has been among the core faculty, teaching and administering the course on M.A. Politics (with specialization in International Studies) in this connection he has been teaching about 60-80 M.A. students a semester. He has also for the bulk of his career in J.N.U a faculty advisor to the M.A. programme. Prof. Bakshi also repeatedly served as the Director of Examinations and the In-charge of the M.A. Entrance Examination Evaluations.

Prof. Bakshi was editor of the SIS journal in International Studies for five years. He ensured its regular publications and improved its quality, facts universally acknowledged. His own recent forty-six page long article on Contemporary Political Theory is a major contribution to the subject. He also imparted this theoretical education to his Ph.D students, one of whom Dimpi Divakaran has been awarded a Ph.D.

It is important to note that Prof. Bakshi was scheduled to teach the core M.A. Course Political Thought-II. This is a course unique to SIS which apart ITom Western thinkers includes a substantial portion on the evaluation of Gandhian thought. It is not a course that can be taught by other teachers without substantial prior preparation. Some 90 students have registered for this course. At this stage the denial of reemployment to Prof. Bakshi would have profound negative consequences for the M.A. programme and its students.

The full extent of Prof. Bakshi contributions to the School is best known to his only colleague and incharge of the Group of Comparative Politics & Political Theory. In the normal course the Chairperson of the Centre or his equivalent is called to the meeting to discuss the re-employment of a retiring colleague. For reasons which are not at all transparent this procedure was violated and Prof. Kamal Mitra Chenoy who could have added substantially to the discussion on Prof. Bakshi's case for reemployment was not called to participate in the discussion, nor consulted on this issue in any manner.

JNUTA consider this a procedural lapse which can only be corrected by reconsidering Prof. Bakshi's case. at the earliest. I would like to stress that there is strong resentment in the faculty in general, and teachers of SIS in particular, on this issue.

This has been brought to our notice by a very senior faculty member, who, himself is a member of many University committees, that the assignments/ duties on various committees of the University, such as appointing advisors and nominating certain faculty members on certain administrative and academic duties are being given only to very few faculty members. JNUTA feels that these assignments should be more democratically, rationally and evenly distributed among the Faculty, without favouring or ignoring any particular individual or section of Faculty. This would avoid burden on those teachers, who are assigned too many jobs and also make those teachers feel less resentful, who, are ignored for such duties.

It has been brought to our notice that JNU annual diaries, distributed among faculty members, are of different types. It seems that this difference in the quality and size of diaries has been on hierarchical grounds, which is rather unfortunate in University like JNU. JNUTA takes strong exception to this discrimination and we hope that it will not be repeated in future.

JNUTA Executive Committee expresses its deepest condolence on the passing away of Prof. M. S. Venkatramani on 19^th December, 2006. Professor Venkatramani was the first Dean and Professor Emeritus of School of International Studies and well known scholar of American studies in

India

. In the passing away of Prof. Venkatramani, JNU has lost a fine scholar and we have lost a valuable colleague. JNUTA EC shares the grief of bereaved family.

(Account details as per Bank Statement:2006)
Last years closing balance/ opening balance 2006                       Rs.516922.31
University contribution-2006                                                    Rs.100000.00
JNUTA members contribution 2006                                            Rs.113060.00
Interest for the year                                                              Rs. 21989.82

Withdrawals: Dr. O.P. Singh                  Rs. 12,000/
Mrs. Rinchen Norbu                             Rs 15,000/-.                    – 27,000.00
                                                                                       _______________

Members are requested to send their comments/suggestions to the Secretary, 129, SIS, JNU