Delhi University states semester breaks only for students

A notification issued by Delhi University (DU) has prohibited faculty members from leaving the city during semester breaks without prior leave approval. It has led to a backlash from section of teachers.

Dated on September 5, the notification stated that semester breaks are designated only for students. It implies that faculty members are not permitted to take time off during these periods.

. "I am directed to inform you that the mid-semester break is only for the students, not for the teachers. If any teacher wants to take leave during the semester break, the teacher concerned will be required to apply for appropriate leave for the period," the notification issued by the assistant registrar of the university said.

Abha Dev Habib, the Democratic Teachers' Front (DTF) secretary, told there was no academic argument or merit to this notification. "Yet another draconian ‘clarification' issued by DU. Many teachers are not from Delhi, and they need to meet their families. Many more also use these small breaks for conferences, etc., as they do not wish to waste teaching time," she said. "This mid-semester break is during Diwali and other holidays. Now, the university wants teachers to use their leaves to be with their families? Can DU be more anti-teacher?" she asked.

Mithuraaj Dhusiya, an elected member of academic council, stated: "After attempted drone-based surveillance of the university community, the attempted linking of teachers' promotion with students' feedback, attempted forcing of newly promoted associate professors and professors to teach 16 hours a week, now comes this — a totally autocratic letter. This must be rolled back immediately." Recently, DU faced a backlash for a circular that mandated senior faculty increase their work hours from 14 to 16 hours a week. Within hours, it retracted the circular.

Delhi University, a prestigious central university in India, is renowned for its diverse academic programs, and a legacy of producing eminent alumni. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines