The Hindu College Staff Association (HCSA) has been protesting for over two weeks, demanding the removal of the college principal and the chairman of its governing body. They allege serious irregularities in admissions, finances, and governance, and have called for immediate intervention by Delhi University (DU) to address these issues.
- HCSA passed a no-confidence resolution against the principal.
- Alleged deviations from university admission rules and financial irregularities.
- Concerns about faculty leave, promotions, and bypassing the Staff Council.
- Demand for an independent inquiry and DU's temporary takeover of the college.
- Allegations of commercial use of college resources and renaming buildings after corporate donors.
What are the main allegations made by the Hindu College Staff Association?
The HCSA alleges multiple irregularities within Hindu College's administration. These include deviations from Delhi University admission rules, delays in faculty leave approvals and promotion processes, and bypassing the statutory Staff Council. They also point to irregularities in financial and procurement procedures and raise concerns about the commercial use of college resources. Additionally, the association highlights non-disclosure of governing body meeting minutes and audited accounts, issues with fee and scholarship governance, questionable appointments and tenure decisions, and repeated fire incidents along with structural problems in college buildings.
Why is the HCSA demanding the removal of the principal and governing body chairman?
The association holds the principal and the chairman of the governing body responsible for the alleged irregularities. They have passed a no-confidence resolution against the principal and demand the removal of both leaders to restore proper governance. The HCSA also requests an independent inquiry into admissions, finances, procurement, construction, appointments, and overall governance to ensure transparency and accountability.
What actions has the HCSA taken during the protest?
The HCSA has been staging a dharna (sit-in protest) for more than two weeks. They have submitted memorandums to the Delhi University vice-chancellor and the college governing body but have not received effective responses. The association also demands the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of show-cause notices issued to its president, secretary, and a senior faculty member, who raised concerns about the principal's conduct.
How does the HCSA view the treatment of faculty members from vulnerable sections?
The association alleges that some faculty members, especially those from Dalit and other vulnerable communities, have been selectively targeted. This claim adds to their concerns about fairness and inclusivity within the college administration.
What are the HCSA's demands regarding Delhi University's role and governance?
The HCSA calls for Delhi University to temporarily take over Hindu College to protect it from potential privatization. They also demand the constitution of an extended governing body to oversee the institution. The association insists on implementing observations made by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), including the disclosure of governing body minutes, audited accounts, tenders, and contracts. Furthermore, they seek the restoration of the Staff Council's statutory authority to ensure faculty participation in governance.
What concerns does the HCSA have about college buildings and corporate involvement?
The association alleges that college buildings are being taken over and renamed after corporate donors such as the Chimes Group, Relaxo, and Ultra International. They claim this practice violates university rules and raises questions about the commercialization of college assets.
Who has shown support for the protesting staff and students?
Political leaders including Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha and Lok Sabha member Sudhakar Singh have addressed the protesting students and teachers in solidarity with their demands. Their involvement highlights the broader concern regarding the governance of Hindu College.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Hindu College Staff Association protesting?
A: They are protesting alleged irregularities in admissions, finances, governance, and the treatment of faculty members, demanding the removal of the principal and governing body chairman and intervention by Delhi University.
Q: What specific irregularities have been alleged?
A: The allegations include deviations from admission rules, financial and procurement irregularities, misuse of college resources, non-disclosure of governing body minutes and audited accounts, and structural safety concerns.
Q: What does the HCSA want Delhi University to do?
A: The association wants Delhi University to temporarily take over Hindu College, conduct an independent inquiry into the alleged irregularities, and restore the Staff Council's authority.
Q: Have the protesting staff received any support?
A: Yes, members of parliament Manoj Jha and Sudhakar Singh have shown support by addressing the protesters.
