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The Wire
2 days ago
- Politics
- The Wire
A University That Punishes Dissent
The following is an open letter to JNU vice chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit (and if he cares to read it, ex-vice chancellor M. Jagadesh Kumar). § Dear Professor Pandit, After an agonising wait of five years for my gratuity illegally withheld by the JNU administration, the Hon'ble Delhi high court has ordered JNU to pay the amount with interest of 6%. Previous to this, I had approached the same court for the recovery of my leave encashment dues, which were also illegally withheld by JNU. The court then (2022) awarded 9% interest. It is more than evident that JNU has acted illegally in withholding my dues (and those of other retired faculty). At the time of my retirement in January 2020, I received no written explanation for the same, despite many written and oral requests to the then-registrar Pramod Kumar. Finally, I was sent a letter on March 17, 2020, saying that I was refused leave encashment and gratuity pending an enquiry into misconduct (which incidentally had been stayed by the Hon'ble Delhi high court). The previous communication I received was on July 24, 2019, when I was informed that under Rule 14 of the Central Civil Service (Classification, Control and Appeal) (CCS/CCA) Rules, 1965, I would be subjected to an enquiry for 'misconduct'. The charge was violating Rule 7 of the CCS/CCA rules. The enquiry was purportedly about a silent and peaceful march on July 31, 2018 taken out by about 200 JNU faculty around the campus, for about half an hour, without disrupting any academic or administrative duties. Less than 50 of us were singled out for the show cause, and later, chargesheet. I referred to the service contract which I had signed when I joined JNU in September 2009. It speaks nowhere of CCS/CCA rules. It only says that I agree to 'Statutes, Ordinances, Regulation and rules for the time being in force in the University…' Since the matter regarding the applicability of CCS/CCA rules to JNU faculty is still pending, let me acquaint you with a brief history of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers' Association (JNUTA)'s struggle which began in February 2016, when Prof Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar had just been appointed as VC of JNU. This was no coincidence. The JNUTA had decided, through a democratic and consultative process, following the turbulence on the campus, and the arrest of some of our students under Section 124a of the IPC, that it would oppose the attempts of the administration to challenge and alter the long-established traditions of debate, dialogue and discussion, including dissent, and norms and practices that recognised seniority in administrative duties. It planned to do this in a number of peaceful and constructive ways. Also read | Chargesheets, Denied Pension, Leaves: JNU's Punitive Measures Against Dissenting Faculty One of these was a month-long series of lectures on nationalism which was held at the steps of the administration in February and March 2016. The events were extremely well-attended, live- streamed and eventually became a book entitled What the Nation Really Needs to Know. Both the YouTube lectures and the book have received widespread attention and use; the book has sold well over 10,000 copies in addition to being translated into many different Indian languages. I hasten to point out that this 'Teach In' was in addition to the classroom teaching, research, administrative work, etc which all JNU teachers continued without interruption. It was, in short, well in keeping with JNU faculty's commitment to innovative teaching and learning. The JNUTA organised a series of other creative and educative events in many parts of the campus (following the Delhi high court order forbidding such actions by students within 100 metres of the administration building). These have continued over the years. None of these were disruptive, noisy or at the cost of the teaching/evaluation/administrative responsibilities of teachers. Overall, the then-new JNU administration could not challenge the JNUTA academically or on any intellectual grounds. Its preferred mode was to seek the support of the judiciary, which has also largely failed. The two cases referred to above clearly show that the JNU administration did not have a legal leg to stand on. None of its executive orders have stood legal scrutiny in case after case, whether it is related to the denial of sabbatical leave, denial of pensions or denial of NOCs to those who wished to travel abroad for fellowships. But we have all learned that in 'New India/Naya Bharat', the process is the punishment, even when there is no wrongdoing. The university soon received adverse publicity nationwide, and there was severe erosion of its carefully built-up academic reputation, which the JNU administration did nothing to rectify. Instead, teachers were maligned in multiple ways for opposing the rapid changes to long-established norms in the university. For instance, chairpersons were appointed, no longer on the basis of seniority, which was the well-established norm, but in arbitrary fashion. Centre for Historical Studies faculty attempted in 2017 to persuade the newly appointed chair, who had superseded many other senior faculty (in direct violation of long-accepted norms) against accepting the responsibility. We failed. (Later, that out-of-turn appointment was reversed by the Hon'ble high court). Instead, as punishment, 12 or 13 of us were asked to appear before an enquiry committee at the Equal Opportunity Office in JNU in 2017/2018, ostensibly for having been discriminatory towards the chair. To date, the report of this committee and its findings have not been made public or shared with all those who repeatedly appeared before the committee, and also submitted explanations in writing. Clearly, there was nothing at all to substantiate these charges. The only goal was harassment. Such mental and psychic harassment continued on many fronts even as the 'dilution' of, and assault on, JNU's original mandate and formidable reputation as an institution of higher learning continued. The academic standing of this premier institution in social sciences and humanities, international relations, languages, and life and physical sciences was undermined in multiple ways. Despite all data indicating a steep fall in enrollments in engineering studies nationwide, Prof Jagadesh Kumar began an undergraduate engineering programme with neither faculty nor buildings. Likewise, a Management Studies Centre was established, once more without teachers and buildings, and student enrolments begun. Both of these efforts basically encashed JNU's carefully built-up brand value in social sciences and the humanities, while undermining it as an institution of higher learning. Finally, on January 5, 2020, having failed to academically or legally dent the formidable spirit of the JNU teaching and learning community, a physical attack, using an unruly armed brigade of 150 storm troopers, was launched on the JNU campus, at which many students and faculty were injured. Although CCTV cameras revealed the identity of the attackers, they were allowed to leave unscathed. To this day, five years later, neither the JNU administration nor the Delhi police have submitted their reports on what happened on that fateful day. We were hopeful that a new vice chancellor, and especially one who has had the privilege of studying in JNU, such as yourself, would restore the intellectual ethos, ethical values and uniquely forged civility that had been systematically undermined under Prof Jagadesh Kumar. You have gone on public record several times praising the achievements of this university. But, alas, you have not lived up to these expectations, and the dismantling of the institution has continued apace, as you have remained steadfastly loyal to your political masters. Also read: Political Intolerance and Declining Academic Freedom in India Prof Pandit, let me conclude with a few personal details. When I retired in January 2020, there was no one to teach the compulsory Capitalism and Colonialism course which I had co-taught with pleasure for a decade. I agreed, in February 2020, to deliver the lectures for the first half of this course. For this, I never asked for, nor was given, any remuneration (and not even a cup of tea was forthcoming from the then-chair of the department!) Thereafter, five of my PhD students remained in my supervision and in continuous touch, and I saw them through their doctoral degrees until their vivas were held (the last was in 2023). In other words, in the best spirit of an earlier JNU ethos, I did not abandon my students even when the institution I had loyally served was abandoning me. The harassment of currently employed faculty who were issued the chargesheet continues, in the form of promotions denied, and the denial of administrative responsibility, withholding permission for leave, etc. Here, again, the JNU administration is bound to lose legally, but the long-drawn-out process is itself the punishment. I have concluded, given the steadfast adherence to illegality by your administration and the previous one, that such recklessness arises from a complete lack of accountability on your part. It is, after all, the taxpayer's money that has to compensate the JNU teachers, such as myself, who were denied their retirement rights in time. I am painfully reminded of the senseless and illiterate noise regarding JNU students and their 'exploitation' of the low fee structure that was aggressively generated after 2016, in articles, WhatsApp messages and TV channels alike. The JNU administration did nothing to counter such relentless calumny. Where are those guardians of taxpayers' money now when lakhs of rupees are being paid out by JNU/the state, for interest on dues which should have been paid a long time ago and for lawyers' fees? Why have those who so long and loudly demanded 'accountability' from students now fallen silent about lakhs of rupees spent on cases which were a tactic to delay, not win? I am suggesting, Prof Pandit, that it will set a very good example and high standard for institutional and personal ethics, if you and Prof Jagadesh Kumar put your money where your mouth is. You should jointly agree to compensate the University – and the Indian state, and the beleaguered tax payer – for the lakhs of rupees in interest that have been paid to each of us for these illegally delayed retirement dues and lawyers' fees on both sides. That will usher in the 'Naya Bharat' that we so desperately need. Janaki NairProfessor of History (retd)JNU Janaki Nair taught at the Centre for Historical Studies, JNU. The Wire is now on WhatsApp. Follow our channel for sharp analysis and opinions on the latest developments.
Indian Express
2 days ago
- Business
- Indian Express
JNU faces Rs 2-crore deficit, panel seeks ‘rationalisation' of aid for poor students
Facing a widening gap between revenue and expenditure, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has recorded a deficit of over Rs 2 crore — a shortfall that an internal committee attributes largely to the payouts under its Merit-cum-Means (MCM) scholarship scheme for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, The Indian Express has learnt. The committee called for 'due rationalisation' of the system of awarding the scholarship. As per the committee, the university's total fee receipts for the 2023–24 academic year (monsoon and winter semesters) stood at Rs 1,61,24,885. In contrast, disbursal under the MCM scholarship for the same period was Rs 3,65,03,199 — leaving a financial deficit of over Rs 2 crore. 'The Committee felt that… the university is not left with a sufficient amount for day-to-day maintenance, repair, and renovation works of buildings. Therefore, the Committee felt that the system of award of MCM and consequent disbursement calls for due rationalisation,' it stated. Officials at the university did not respond to queries from The Indian Express on whether the proposed rationalisation will affect new or ongoing scholarships. Records show that the annual amount spent on the MCM scholarships has grown dramatically — from Rs 13.3 lakh in 1994–95 to over Rs 3.66 crore in 2023–24. Between 2021–22 and 2022–23 alone, disbursal shot up from Rs 2.13 crore to Rs 3.99 crore. In 2024-2025 (till October 31, 2024), the amount stood at Rs 2,96,89,560. A key eligibility criterion for the scholarship is that the total annual income of the applicant's parents or guardians from all sources must not exceed Rs 2,50,000 per annum. This income cap is intended to ensure that the scholarship benefits students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The MCM is funded through the university's 'internal receipts', a pool that includes tuition fees, recovery of electricity and water charges from employees, shop rents, medical charges, and income from guest houses. 'The committee was further apprised that there is an increasing financial burden on 'internal receipts' due to payment of MCM when viewed against the amount of tuition fees received from students…,' the panel stated. Specifically, the receipts comprise rent from Gomti Guest House, Aravali Guest House, and Aravali International Guest House, as well as fees collected at the health centre and income from miscellaneous sources such as the sale of waste paper, conservancy charges, staff quarter licence fees, and recruitment application fees, amongst many others. But the committee noted that this revenue pool is under strain, especially with maintenance and infrastructure needs rising. 'Because of this, the university is not left with sufficient funds,' the committee concludes. The MCM scholarship application form on JNU's website states that only students enrolled in certain Bachelor's and Master's programmes are eligible to apply. A student is required to submit an undertaking affirming that they are not currently receiving any other fellowship, state scholarship, or form of remuneration. They must also declare their present employment status — whether employed or not in any government or private organisation. Furthermore, the student commits to informing the Dean or Chairperson immediately if they secure any form of employment, fellowship, honorarium, or remuneration in the future. The undertaking explicitly states that furnishing false information may lead to disciplinary action by the Centre or School, including the cancellation of admission if any misrepresentation is later discovered. In 2018, the JNU Students' Union (JNUSU) alleged the administration had not released the scholarships to BA-MA students for over eight months, withholding over Rs 50 lakh and causing financial hardship for many students struggling to meet educational and daily expenses. In 2019, official data showed that around 18% of JNU's student population availed of the scholarship, underscoring its significance as a key financial support mechanism for those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Since the post-pandemic resumption of JNUSU election, increasing the amount disbursed under the MCM scholarship has remained a key electoral promise made by every presidential candidate, making it a persistent campus issue for students.
India Today
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Vivek Agnihotri says Deepika Padukone was unaware of JNU politics during 2020 visit
Director Vivek Agnihotri shared his opinion on actor Deepika Padukone's 2020 visit to JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University).He said that Padukone may not have been aware of the politics at JNU during her an interview with Shubhankar Mishra for his YouTube podcast, Agnihotri claimed that the actor might have been persuaded by her PR team to join the students' protest at The 'The Bengal Files' director said, "I can guarantee that Deepika had no idea about JNU politics when she went there."On being interrupted about whether he was implying that the actor was not smart enough, Agnihotri further said, "It's not about being dumb.""Her PR must've told her that this is a good opportunity to promote your film, because the university is associated with politics, and the film is also political. If she had known, she wouldn't have come," the director went emphasised that associating with politics can lead to inevitable risks. He said, "You play with fire, you get burned.""I don't know her personally, so I don't know what ideology she aligns with. I do know that she is a very smart and intelligent woman," the director further said, "Had she known that this is a politically sensitive place and that it might impact her career, she would've definitely not gone.""During film promotions, there are too many voices telling stars what to do and who to speak to. Her PR was mistaken, they thought it was an event. But it wasn't an event. Bigger fish than her have been fried for getting involved in politics," he played an acid-attack survivor, Malti, in 'Chhapaak', based on a tragic real-life the promotion of her film, she visited JNU in solidarity with students protesting against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).Agnihotri, known for being politically vocal on various issues, recently unveiled the teaser of his political-drama 'The Bengal Files'."The film features Anupam Kher, Mithun Chakraborty, Pallavi Joshi, Darshan Kumar, Puneet Issar and Saswata Chatterjee, among others in crucial roles.'The Bengal Files' is scheduled to release on September Watch
Time of India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Akshay Kumar on Hera Pheri 3 row with Paresh Rawal, After Aishwarya Rai, Wamiqa Gabbi speaks about Karan Johar's support for Alia Bhatt: Top 5 news
Bollywood is buzzing with news. Akshay Kumar sues Paresh Rawal after Rawal's exit from Hera Pheri 3. Wamiqa Gabbi praises Karan Johar's support for Alia Bhatt. Priyanka Chopra mourns her uncle's death. Aamir Khan reveals he wasn't offered DDLJ and rejected Bajrangi Bhaijaan. Vivek Agnihotri recalls Deepika Padukone's JNU visit, claiming she was misinformed. Dive in to stay ahead of the curve and catch up on the buzz making waves across Bollywood, Hollywood, and beyond. From Akshay Kumar responding to controversy with Paresh Rawal in Hera Pheri 3, After Aishwarya Rai, Wamiqa Gabbi speaking about Karan Johar 's support for Alia Bhatt to Vivek Agnihotri recalling Deepika Padukone's 2020 JNU visit; here's a roundup of the top 5 stories that lit up the world of film and fame today. Akshay Kumar responds to controversy with Paresh Rawal in Hera Pheri 3 Akshay Kumar's production house has taken legal action against longtime co-star Paresh Rawal—filing a Rs 25 crore suit—after Rawal abruptly exited Hera Pheri 3. Fans and colleagues were stunned by the surprise departure. Kumar, calling the issue "serious," expressed hope for a smooth resolution through the courts. After Aishwarya Rai, Wamiqa Gabbi also speaks about Karan Johar's support for Alia Bhatt Wamiqa Gabbi recently highlighted filmmaker Karan Johar's support for Alia Bhatt, echoing past comments from Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Expressing admiration, she confessed she'd love to 'steal' Johar's mentorship for herself. Her candid praise sparked applause online, with fans hailing her honesty—sparking fresh discussion on connections and backing within Bollywood. Priyanka Chopra mourns death of Mannara Chopra's father Priyanka Chopra mourned the loss of her uncle, Advocate Raman Rai Handa—Mannara Chopra's father—who passed away on June 16 at around 71. Described as a pillar of strength, his death has deeply affected the Chopra family. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trade Bitcoin & Ethereum – No Wallet Needed! IC Markets Start Now Undo Priyanka offered condolences via Instagram, and Mannara and sister Mitali are preparing for his final rites on June 18. Aamir Khan reveals he was NOT approached for 'DDLJ'; why he rejected Bajrangi Bhaijaan Aamir Khan recently clarified that he was never approached for the iconic DDLJ, debunking associated rumours. He also shared that he turned down Bajrangi Bhaijaan, believing Salman Khan would be better suited, and recommended the role to him through director Kabir Khan. Vivek Agnihotri recalls Deepika Padukone's 2020 JNU visit Deepika Padukone, during her 2020 visit to JNU, was reportedly unaware of the campus's political climate, recalls Vivek Agnihotri. He claims her PR team misinformed her about the ground situation. As a result, she missed chances to engage meaningfully with students and political discussions during the trip.
India.com
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri Takes A Dig At Deepika Padukones JNU Visit In 2020
New Delhi: Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri is making headlines after taking a dig at Deepika Padukone's visit to Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in 2020. At the time, the actress stood silently in solidarity with students following a violent attack on campus—just days before the release of her film Chhapaak. In a recent interview, Agnihotri questioned whether Deepika truly understood the political implications of her appearance. Vivek Agnihotri On Deepika Padukone's JNU Visit In 2020 Speaking in a new interview with Shubhankar Mishra, Agnihotri questioned whether the actor was truly aware of the political weight her silent show of support carried. Vivek said, 'I can guarantee that Deepika had no idea about JNU politics when she went there.' According to him, Deepika was likely misled by her PR team, who may have viewed the event as an opportunity to promote her 2020 film Chhapaak, which dealt with a socially sensitive issue. When asked directly if he thought Deepika was 'dumb,' Agnihotri clarified, 'It's not about being dumb. Her PR must've told her that this is a good opportunity to promote your film, because the university is associated with politics, and the film is also political. If she had known, she wouldn't have come.' He also acknowledged the unavoidable risks that come with entering political territory—intentional or not. 'You play with fire, you get burned. ' Calling Deepika Padukone a smart woman, he said she likely wouldn't have appeared there if she had known it was politically sensitive. He further added, 'I don't know her personally, so I don't know what ideology she aligns with. I do know that she is a very smart and intelligent woman. Had she known that this is a politically sensitive place and that it might impact her career, she would've definitely not gone. During film promotions, there are too many voices telling stars what to do and who to speak to. Her PR was mistaken, they thought it was an event. But it wasn't an event. Bigger fish than her have been fried for getting involved in politics. ' the filmmaker concluded. About Chhapaak Directed by Meghna Gulzar, Chhapaak featured Deepika Padukone as Malti, a young woman who fights for justice and social change after surviving a horrific acid attack. Though critically acclaimed for its sensitive storytelling and Deepika's powerful performance, the film struggled at the box office partly due to the backlash following the actor's appearance at a JNU protest.
