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Sudhanshu Sharma

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) representing educators from all four state universities in Himachal Pradesh convened an important online meeting today to tackle the longstanding issue of promotions under the Career Advancement Scheme (CAS). These promotions have been effectively halted due to government-imposed restrictions.

Participants included representatives from Himachal Pradesh University in Shimla, Sardar Patel University in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University in Palampur, and the Veterinary & Animal Sciences University. The meeting was led by JAC President Prof. Janardan, alongside Vice President Dr. Saneel, General Secretary Prof. Nitin Vyas, and member Dr. Joginder Saklani.

Following extensive discussions, the committee reached a consensus to fortify the JAC and initiate a collective movement against the obstruction of career advancement opportunities for university educators.

Strong Criticism of Government Restrictions

Members voiced strong disapproval of the state government's decision to prevent CAS promotions, emphasizing that CAS is a crucial mechanism recommended by the University Grants Commission (UGC) to ensure timely academic progression based on teaching, research, and scholarly contributions.

They expressed significant concern over the fact that numerous educators across state universities have been denied their rightful promotions. Some assistant professors have been waiting since 2016, despite meeting all eligibility requirements. This ongoing delay has led to frustration and a decline in morale.

Impact on Academic Environment

The committee highlighted that the suspension of CAS promotions is not only unfair to educators but also harmful to the academic atmosphere. Promotions under CAS encourage faculty to engage in research, publish work, innovate, and provide quality education. Denying these opportunities hampers the advancement of higher education institutions.

Allegations of Discrimination

JAC members pointed out the inequality between university educators and other state employees, noting that ministers, MLAs, and senior bureaucrats receive timely promotions and allowances, while teachers are left waiting for years. They argued that this neglect reflects a concerning attitude towards higher education.

Decision to Launch Statewide Movement

At the conclusion of the meeting, the JAC declared a statewide movement advocating for the immediate reinstatement of CAS promotions. The committee emphasized that the campaign would be democratic and peaceful, yet strong and effective, with coordinated efforts from all four universities.

The JAC cautioned that if the situation remains unresolved, educators may have to escalate their protests through demonstrations, sit-ins, and coordinated actions across campuses. As a last resort, they might even contemplate boycotting academic responsibilities, although they stressed this would be a reluctant decision due to their commitment to students.

Call for Immediate Dialogue

The committee called on the state government to acknowledge the gravity of the situation and engage in discussions with teacher representatives. They asserted that restoring CAS promotions would not only rebuild trust among educators but also enhance the state's higher education system.