The Delhi University Teachers' Association (DUTA) staged a dharna at the Faculty of Technology, University of Delhi after 34 faculty members were issued a memorandum seeking explanations for their absence during the first one-and-a-half hours of the new academic session.

The association has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the memorandum, alleging that it unfairly targets teachers and undermines their professional dignity.

What the Memorandum Said

According to the memorandum issued by the Faculty of Technology, the faculty members were asked to explain their absence between 9:00 am and 10:30 am on the opening day of the 2026–27 academic session.

The notice directed them to submit signed written explanations by 5:00 pm the same day.

It further stated that:

• The absence was being viewed seriously by the administration.
• Failure to submit an explanation, or providing an unsatisfactory response, could result in disciplinary proceedings.
• Such conduct could be treated as a serious administrative lapse under the University of Delhi regulations.

DUTA Alleges Violation of Natural Justice

Objecting to the memorandum, DUTA wrote to the Dean of the Faculty of Technology seeking its unconditional withdrawal.

The association argued that:

• The wording of the notice presumed teachers were guilty before establishing the facts.
• The requirement to submit signed explanations under the threat of disciplinary action was coercive.
• The communication violated the principles of natural justice.
• The memorandum affected the dignity and professional respect of faculty members.

These allegations reflect DUTA's position. The university administration's detailed response to these specific claims was not included in the reported proceedings.

Protest on Guru Purnima

DUTA President V. S. Negi described the timing of the memorandum as particularly unfortunate because it was issued on Guru Purnima, a day traditionally dedicated to honouring teachers.

According to the association, issuing such a communication on that occasion adversely affected academic morale and trust between faculty and the administration.

Talks End Without Resolution

DUTA representatives met the Dean of the Faculty of Technology and urged the administration to withdraw the memorandum.

However, the meeting concluded without any assurance regarding its withdrawal.

Following the discussions, teachers assembled at the Faculty of Technology and launched a dharna, stating that the protest was intended to protect the dignity, self-respect and rights of the teaching community.

Protest to Continue

DUTA has announced that the agitation will continue until the memorandum is withdrawn unconditionally.

The association has urged the Delhi University administration to adopt a more consultative approach while dealing with faculty members and avoid what it describes as coercive administrative measures.

The issue has also sparked a broader discussion on faculty rights, administrative accountability and workplace practices within higher education institutions.

Why This Matters

The dispute highlights the ongoing debate over balancing institutional discipline with the rights and dignity of academic staff. Universities are expected to maintain administrative accountability, while faculty associations emphasize adherence to principles of natural justice and fair procedure. How the matter is resolved could influence future administrative practices and labour relations within higher education institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is DUTA protesting?

DUTA is protesting against a memorandum issued to 34 faculty members seeking explanations for their absence during the first morning of the academic session.

What did the memorandum require?

Faculty members were asked to submit signed explanations for their absence and were informed that unsatisfactory responses could lead to disciplinary proceedings.

Why does DUTA oppose the memorandum?

The association says the notice is arbitrary, coercive and violates principles of natural justice by allegedly presuming guilt before establishing the facts.

Did discussions resolve the issue?

No. Talks between DUTA representatives and the Faculty of Technology administration ended without an agreement, leading to the dharna.

Will the protest continue?

According to DUTA, the protest will continue until the memorandum is withdrawn unconditionally.