Writing to govt to be considered misconduct, MDU warns faculty

The authorities of Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) have warned the faculty members that writing to the state/Central authorities or members of the university’s executive council or academic council would be treated as misconduct on their part.

The Registrar on Tuesday shot off a communique to the Dean (Academic Affairs), deans of all faculties, heads of department and directors of all institutes in this regard.

“Pursuant to the orders of the Executive Council vide Resolution No. 17(3) of its meeting held on 30.1.2025, it is notified that in future, if any teacher (takes) recourse to any kind of pressure tactics or creates indiscipline by writing to members of the Academic/Executive Council, any other higher authorities of the state/Centre or any outside agency bypassing the authorised channel, such act may be treated as misconduct on part of the university employee. All faculty members, are, therefore, required to adhere strictly to these instructions, ensuring compliance," stated the circular.

The university teachers have taken a strong exception to the move, calling it a violation of their constitutional rights.

“The orders are a blatant violation of the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression of the university teachers and should be withdrawn immediately," said Dr Vikas Siwach, president of the MDU Teachers Association.

The MDU teachers have also decried the orders issued in the wake of the registration of police cases against a faculty member of Ashoka University.

“Every resident has the right to approach the state and Central governments to get their grievances redressed. The diktat issued by the MDU amounts to suppression of the fundamental right of university teachers," stated a senior faculty member, requesting anonymity.

While the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Rajbir Singh, was stated to be out of the country, Prof AS Maan, Dean (Academic Affairs), expressed ignorance about the issuance of the letter.

“I do not have any idea about any such orders. Our Director (Public Relations) would be able to comment on the matter," he said.

The Director (PR) at MDU, Prof Ashish Dahiya, said the circular had been issued to ensure the maintenance of official procedure and check the bypassing of the official channel. “Such directions were also issued by the state authorities some time ago," he added.

Haryana Tribune