Ri Bhoi:
Mahatma Gandhi University (MGU) students and faculty members staged a protest on January 14 at Byrnihat against the university’s management for allegedly terminating the service of a faculty member who had requested a one-day holiday for the Bihu festival.
An assistant professor from MGU, Sonu Lama, spoke to The Meghalayan and said that it is their right to have a holiday, particularly during cultural festivals like Bihu, as it is “a matter of belief”. She also mentioned that at the university, one teacher often has to manage an entire department, which is an impossible and pressured task.
Upasana Das, another faculty member, added that the university is facing a shortage of teachers due to the attitude of the management. “Despite repeated demands, the management has failed to meet their needs and the staff is facing numerous difficulties,” she said, adding that if the situation does not improve, the staff may consider mass resignation.
Das also mentioned that she had contacted the university management and other faculty members to discuss the issue and request the holiday. However, she claimed that the Chancellor responded very rudely and disconnected the call.
According to Das, she received a call from the university’s Human Resources department informing her that she had been terminated from her position. Das expressed that she was shocked by the decision and stated that it is unacceptable for an individual to be terminated for simply requesting a holiday which is their right.
Das further added that there are many issues between the management and faculty members, including a lack of infrastructure and training. She also said that many students and faculty members wanted the Bihu holiday, but the Chancellor was unwilling to grant it.
The Khasi Students’ Union MGU Unit also joined the protest, highlighting their demands for better facilities, including a library, and increased faculty in various subjects.
Speaking to The Meghalayan, Jopmiki Rabon, President, KSU MGU unit said, “We had submitted these demands on February 11, 2022, and again on November 18, 2022, but we are yet to see any action taken by the management”.
Rabon also stated that the union had attempted to meet with the Chancellor and Vice-chancellor to discuss their demands but were unsuccessful as the officials have been absent for several weeks. Rabon added that students are facing difficulties as exams are approaching but coursework has not been completed due to a lack of faculty.
The university has not yet commented on the situation.
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