DUTA calls for indefinite strike from 4th December

DUTA Strike: The Delhi University Teachers' Association (DUTA) has decided to go on an indefinite strike starting 4th December 2019 in response to the decision taken by Delhi University Principals' Association – DUPA. The decision by DUPA to put the joining of ad-hoc teachers on hold is what caused this response from DUTA amidst of the on-going DU semester end examinations. The teachers have said that they will not participate in invigilation or evaluation duties of the semester exams conducted by the varsity.

In a meeting of DUPA held on 29th November 2019 it was decided that the joining of ad-hoc teachers and disbursal of their salaries will be put on hold. The decision was taken as per Delhi University circular released on 28th August 2019 which read “appointment of guest teachers can be made against substantive vacancies arising for the first time in the current academic session” only. DUPA’s decision is likely to affect over 4500 teachers working in Delhi University for the past many years on ad-hoc basis.

The Teachers’ association, in a statement said that, it is completely unacceptable that the vice chancellor has denied the appointment of full time teachers on adhoc vacancies until positions can be filled on permanent basis, through the 28th August circular. The statement also goes on to say that it is extremely unfortunate and the association is anguished to see that the circular released earlier is now being interpreted by the DUPA in a manner that can disrupt the livelihood of 4500 teachers working on an ad-hoc basis against substantive posts for past several years.

DUTA has reportedly given the Vice Chancellor a period of three working days to agree to withdraw the 28th August letter and counting of past services for promotions as was granted by DU ordinances. DUTA executive has also decided to continue the struggle till the HRD Ministry and the UGC do not bring a one-time regulation for absorption of serving ad-hoc and temporary teachers. The association said that it will also seek the support of parents, students and leaders of political parties, if required, to gather mass support for its movement.

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