Why is there a protest at Hindu College? Understanding the staff's demands against the administration

The Hindu College Staff Association (HCSA) is protesting against the college principal and the chairperson of the governing body. As the protest enters its second month, the dispute shows no signs of abating.

The Hindu College Staff Association (HCSA) is staging a protest against the college principal and the chairperson of the governing body. The protest entered its second month on Wednesday, yet the conflict remains unresolved. The protesting organization has demanded that Delhi University intervene in the matter immediately.

During a press conference held on Wednesday, the organization stated that the college is failing to adhere to established rules regarding admissions, appointments, and financial management. They have alleged irregularities in the admission process for 'supernumerary' seats, noting that Delhi University’s regulations are being violated. The organization is demanding the immediate removal of the college principal, Dr. Anju Srivastava, and the chairperson of the governing body, T.C.A. Rangachari.

What is the root of this dispute?

The conflict at Hindu College, Delhi University, began on September 14. The College Staff Association alleged that Delhi University’s regulations were violated during the recent undergraduate (UG) admissions process, specifically regarding the allocation of seats under various quotas, including those for extracurricular activities. While the issue initially centered solely on admission irregularities, the scope of the allegations leveled by the organization against the college administration has expanded over the past few weeks.

Allegations leveled by the organization against the college administration:

The organization has accused the college administration of failing to follow university regulations regarding admissions.
Furthermore, they allege that the minutes of governing body meetings, audited accounts, tender documents, and contracts have not been made public.
Additionally, they have accused the administration of sidelining the Staff Council—the body responsible for decision-making. The HCSA has also alleged delays in matters concerning faculty leave and promotions at the college.
Questions have been raised regarding the management of college fees and scholarships.
Concerns have also been voiced about the recurring fire incidents within the college administration.
There is opposition to the decision to secure a loan from the Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) for the construction of a hostel.
A demand has been made for an impartial inquiry into alleged irregularities in admissions under the sports and ECA (Extra-Curricular Activities) quotas.

Action against protesting faculty members

According to association officials, punitive action is being taken against them for raising their voices against the administration. HCSA President Ratanlal, Secretary Shankar Kumar, and senior faculty member P.K. Vijayan have been issued show-cause notices, with the administration alleging "gross indiscipline" and "unauthorized conduct." The organization has further alleged that faculty members belonging to Dalit communities and other marginalized sections of society are being specifically targeted. In light of this, the faculty members are demanding the immediate withdrawal of these notices.

Demand for intervention by Delhi University (DU)

The HCSA has submitted a memorandum to the Vice-Chancellor and the Governing Body of Delhi University, urging the university to intervene immediately and temporarily assume administrative control of Hindu College. Furthermore, the faculty members have demanded the constitution of an "expanded" Governing Body to ensure transparency, and have called for the immediate implementation of the observations and recommendations made by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).