Kolkata: Visva-Bharati University has issued a notification mandating that all employees, including teaching and non-teaching staff, must obtain prior permission from the heads of departments and centres before leaving office premises during working hours. This directive has sparked strong reactions from faculty members, who have termed it as highly demeaning and have demanded its immediate withdrawal.
Background of the Notification
A source within Visva-Bharati revealed that the notification was introduced to enforce discipline among employees, both teaching and non-teaching. The decision was prompted by concerns that a few teachers and staff members were not arriving at the university on time or were leaving early without proper authorization. The administration believes that this measure will ensure accountability and punctuality among all staff.
Faculty Association's Response
The Visva-Bharati University Faculty Association (VBUFA) has strongly opposed the notification. In a letter addressed to the vice-chancellor, registrar, and other officials, the association demanded the withdrawal of the order, stating that it unnecessarily casts doubt on the integrity and sense of responsibility of faculty members.
The letter highlighted that most faculty members have expressed resentment over the directive, as they feel their dedication and integrity are being questioned without any valid reason. The association argued that quantifying teaching and research in terms of hours is both absurd and counterproductive, and it demeans the role of a faculty member. Many faculty members actively engaged in research spend considerably more time in their departments and laboratories beyond their prescribed working hours, often working until 10 pm or later. The office order was described as humiliating to their sense of responsibility.
Faculty members have emphasized that such a rule undermines the trust between the administration and the academic staff, and it fails to recognize the nature of academic work, which often extends beyond fixed hours. The VBUFA has called for a more collaborative approach to address any disciplinary concerns rather than imposing blanket restrictions that affect all employees.
