Now, JNU students, teachers need 'approval' before leaving country
What's the story
A new rule rolled out by administration of Jawahar Lal University (JNU) underlines that students and faculty members will have to take 'prior approval' before leaving the country, even if they are on a vacation. Registrar Pramod Kumar issued this circular on Friday, and the decision was taken on November 20, during the executive council (EC) meeting. Defaulters will face strict action, it said.
Quote
What does the circular state
"This is brought to the notice that exercise council in its 277th meeting held on November 20, 2018...that as per the rules students, staff and faculty must obtain prior approval before leaving the county. It is applicable even during the vacation period," read the circular.
Details
Flouting the rule could invite action
In the circular, students and teachers were also warned of action if the rule is flouted. "Non-compliance of a rule on this regard will be viewed seriously and action will be taken as per the service rules," the circular read. Notably, JNU Teachers' Association (JNUTA) claimed the rule is already being followed by teachers. However, others felt this was an attempt to threaten teachers.
Reactions
Administration is violating India's Constitution: JNUTA Secretary
Avinash Kumar, the secretary of JNUTA, said the rule was meant to threaten teachers and added the administration was violating the JNU Act and the Constitution of India. "It is the university administration, which is violating all the rules, the JNU Act and also the Constitution of India and is destroying the teaching and learning in JNU," he said.
JNUSU's stand
Now we will need 'two' visas: JNUSU President
The decision also received flak from JNUSU. The president N Sai Balaji said this would affect research work and discourage abroad trips. "Now we will need two visas one from the government and another from the administration for any visit outside the country," he said. He alleged the administration was trying to stop all kinds of academic activities in the university.