RGNUL Faculty Seek Chancellor's Intervention Over Alleged Governance Lapses, Promotion Irregularities; May Resort To 'Pen-Down Strike'

Faculty members of the Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL), Punjab, have raised serious concerns over what they describe as a decline in transparency, institutional governance, and adherence to established procedures within the University.In an email sent to Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Jai S. Singh on August 10, faculty members objected to a recent promotion decision, alleging that it overlooked applicable rules and norms of transparency. The faculty has now sought the intervention of the University's Chancellor, Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra, Acting Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, or his nominee.Issuing a 48-hour notice, the faculty has sought a personal hearing with the Chancellor or an authorised representative to present their concerns and supporting documents. They have warned that, in the absence of timely intervention, they would withdraw from routine institutional work and proceed towards a “pen-down strike.”An aggrieved faculty member, speaking to LiveLaw, stated:“Originally, faculty had resolved to withdraw from day-to-day academic and administrative work for 48 hours so that the VC could secure us an appointment with the Chancellor. However, after a meeting held this morning, the vindictive and irrational attitude of the VC compelled the faculty to resort to a pen-down strike until the Hon'ble Chancellor or his nominee addresses our concerns. The request has now been sent through the office of the Registrar.”The faculty further expressed confidence in the Chancellor, stating that they have “utmost faith” that appropriate steps would be taken in the interest of the institution.Following are allegations raised by the faculty members speaking to LiveLaw:Irregularities in Faculty Promotions: It has been alleged that the Vice-Chancellor has selectively favoured certain individuals. In one instance, a faculty member was reportedly promoted to Associate Professor despite having been promoted just a year earlier, while several eligible candidates awaiting promotion since 2022 were overlooked without justification.Degradation of Academic Curriculum: Faculty members have claimed that academic standards are being diluted, with the curriculum allegedly being reduced to a level comparable to senior secondary education. Directions to provide handwritten notes to students, purportedly on the premise that “students do not read books,” have also been criticised.Appointments Without Due Process: Concerns have been raised over the appointment of distinguished professors without consultation with the Dean or adherence to established procedures.Inappropriate Conduct Towards Faculty: Serious allegations have been made regarding the VC's conduct, including claims of inappropriate remarks against faculty members in public settings, creating what has been described as a hostile work environment.Financial Mismanagement: Faculty members have questioned expenditure priorities, alleging that ₹6–7 lakh was spent on conferences of questionable relevance and foreign trips without tangible benefits, while staff arrears remain unpaid.Coercion for Ghostwriting: It has also been alleged that faculty members are being pressured to engage in ghostwriting for VC, raising concerns about academic integrity.It is also alleged that, VC involves shady employees of other institutions like Punjab University in internal administration and decision making. The particular professor himself is allegedly facing several sexual harassment complaints in his own institution.

RGNUL Faculty Seek Chancellor's Intervention Over Alleged Governance Lapses, Promotion Irregularities; May Resort To 'Pen-Down Strike'

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RGNUL Faculty Seek Chancellor's Intervention Over Alleged Governance Lapses, Promotion Irregularities; May Resort To 'Pen-Down Strike'

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