Kataka: Tension at Ravenshaw University intensified on Wednesday as the Ravenshaw University Teachers’ Association (RUTA) staged a peaceful march to the Vice-Chancellor’s office, protesting alleged political interference in university affairs and demanding dignity for teachers and autonomy for the institution.
The teachers marched from the Seven Pillars of Wisdom on the university campus and submitted a four-point charter of demands, including a public apology from the alleged offender, no political interference in university administration, protection of teachers’ dignity, and respect for the office of the Vice-Chancellor and the institution.
The protest comes in the wake of an incident on August 3 during a student agitation over a hostel-related issue, where the teachers’ association alleged that a senior professor holding the post of Chief Warden was subjected to inappropriate behaviour and harsh remarks in the presence of students.
“On August 3, when students were staging an agitation, the Vice-Chancellor, Chief Warden, Warden and I were present there. We had almost convinced the students, and the matter was resolved. However, the Kataka Sadar MLA arrived at the spot and allegedly instigated the students. The Chief Warden, who is a senior professor, was treated in an unacceptable manner and harsh words were used against him,” a professor said.
The professor further alleged that political intervention was unnecessary in the matter and claimed that the students had also clarified that they had not called the MLA to the campus.
“If anyone receives information about a university matter, the Vice-Chancellor should be consulted first. Instead, insulting senior professors in front of students affects the dignity of the entire institution. Our protest is against such conduct,” the professor added.
Another faculty member said all hostel wardens and deputy wardens had submitted their collective resignations on Tuesday following the controversy.
“The Vice-Chancellor has taken seven days’ time to examine the issue and take a decision. He also held discussions with the professors and assured us that appropriate steps would be taken. We are waiting for the outcome,” the professor said.
Meanwhile, students of Ravenshaw University have continued their indefinite hunger strike since August 2, demanding the removal of the deputy warden from duty over allegations of harassment and locking of hostel rooms.
