Delhi University’s faculty members are protesting for a September 5, 2024 notice which was issued by the university administration , under which it restricts academic travel and altered the holiday policy for teaching staff. The notice has imposed an order that restricts the mid semester break of DU teachers stating that the break is only for students, faculty staff requires to be available for academic duties throughout the break period and can only take a break after their leave application gets approved.
Delhi University reinforces strict curbs on official travel for faculty members, they can only travel after providing detailed justifications for any travel request. Teachers across the university showed their frustration stating that the mid semester break is essential for both rest and advancing research work.
Administration argued that the university were entitled to two months’ summer vacation and two 15-day (autumn and winter break) vacations for teachers. University also stated that the notice aims the improve the institutional efficiency and ensure the consistent faculty availability.
Many teachers mentioned that it is illogical that the teaching faculty are expected to be on duty for the semester break period when their main task, like teaching, is not possible with their students being extended a break. Given the continuous teaching pressure, many teachers look forward to the mid-semester breaks as a breather but DU is disrupting the balance between academic duties and professional development.
Faculty members criticized the policy by preparing petitions and calling for a dialogue with the administration to address their concerns. Faculty said that by restricting the teachers holidays they are risking their reputation.
Through rallies and campus demonstrations, faculty members wishes to advocate for policy changes that would reinstate the mid semester break for all academic staff and allow greater flexibility in travel for essential academic purposes.
This protest have brought attention to the requirement of the open discussion between faculty and the Delhi University’s administration.
