Fissures have appeared between members of the Punjab Agricultural University Teachers’ Association (PAUTA) after ex-president Mukesh Siag accused the incumbent HS Kingra of making a mockery out of the democratic setup of the teachers’ body.
In the meantime, Kingra’s hunger strike entered its seventh day on Tuesday.
Referring to an email issued by Kingra on December 11 from the dharna site which stated that members of the teachers’ body should not indulge in bickering and mud slinging, Siag replied, “I chose not to bicker but I will take the liberty to respond. I consider you solely responsible for eroding the credibility of PAUTA by not getting the elections conducted in time. You have been misusing your post to disrespect the faculty and bring a bad name to the varsity.”
“First, the teachers’ body should get a duly-elected executive. Therefore, irrespective of whoever gets elected, we will be able to take up issues collectively with the administration and government,” he added.
While Kingra was not available for comments, KS Sanga, member of the PAUTA executive body, said that the faction led by Siag was backed by vice-chancellor Dhillon and they want to create a rift between members of the teachers’ body. He said the election was delayed due to the pandemic and a few other reasons.
{{/usCountry}}While Kingra was not available for comments, KS Sanga, member of the PAUTA executive body, said that the faction led by Siag was backed by vice-chancellor Dhillon and they want to create a rift between members of the teachers’ body. He said the election was delayed due to the pandemic and a few other reasons.
{{/usCountry}}“Now, it has been decided that the election will be conducted on January 20. Earlier, vice-chancellor BS Dhillon while addressing the faculty had indicated that Kingra’s post is unconstitutional. Without naming him, the V-C said that an individual was occupying the post for over two years in violation of the constitution of the teachers’ body,” Sanga said.
The elections which are scheduled to take place after the stipulated term of one year, have not been conducted since 2019, said a faculty member.
Siag urges Kangra to end hunger strike
In a letter, Siag said, “Irrespective of our differences, I am very concerned about your health. It’s astonishing that your close friends in the group allow you to take such an extreme step. My humble request to you is that you have done your bit, so please end your fast for your family and well- wishers.”