Rajouri varsity teachers start hunger strike against professor’s suspension
Mehbooba raises alarm over suspension, calls for transparency
Jammu: Teaching faculty members of the Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU) in Rajouri district of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir have started an indefinite hunger strike, declaring it as ‘fast unto death’, in protest against ‘arbitrary and unjust’ suspension of an Assistant Professor of the varsity.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the university administration issued an order in which Dr Parvez Abdullah, a faculty member of Management Studies in university, was placed under suspension while an inquiry was also ordered against him. Dr Parvez is also the President of university’s teaching association.
In a strongly worded statement, the faculty members of the university, under the banner of the BGSBU Teachers Association (BGSBUTA) condemned the action, calling it an assault on academic freedom and faculty rights. “Dr Parvez Abdullah, a respected academician and a vocal advocate for faculty rights, was suspended under circumstances that the faculty strongly condemn as arbitrary and unjust”, the statement said.
The teachers added that the suspension was aimed at suppressing a potential move by the Association to seek inquiries into recent faculty promotions in the Nursing Department, which they say were made “in gross violation of UGC or Nursing Council norms.”
Initially, the faculty members staged a pen-down strike, paralyzing academic and administrative activities. However, with the university administration refusing to engage in constructive dialogue, the association has now escalated its protest to an indefinite hunger strike until Dr. Abdullah’s suspension is revoked.
The protesting faculty members assert that the suspension of Dr. Abdullah is not just an attack on an individual but a direct assault on academic freedom, faculty rights, and democratic values within the university. They have called for immediate intervention from higher authorities to ensure justice and uphold academic integrity.
Meanwhile, Mehbooba Mufti, President of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), expressed concern about the suspension of Dr. Parvez Abdullah. in a post on X, Mehbooba Mufti wrote, “The suspension of Dr. Parvez Abdullah from Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University has escalated into a major issue with both teaching & non-teaching staff going on an indefinite strike in his support.” “This has become a pressing concern as it is significantly impacting the academic environment and the overall educational system at the university. Moreover many conspiracy theories are making rounds which threaten the very existence of this precious university.” she added.
“The administration must clarify the reasons behind his suspension and make them public. Transparency and accountability are crucial to understand why such action was taken against the assistant professor.” Mehbooba Mufti wrote.
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