Madras University Faculty Question Monday’s CAS Promotion Interviews

swift summary

• Faculty members of the University of Madras (UoM) raised objections to scheduled interviews for professor promotions under the Career Advancement Scheme (CAS), citing violations of university statutes.
• Professors’ Forum highlighted deviations in promotions, rotation of headships, and appointments to non-statutory positions like deans, directors, and coordinators.
• A key objection is that conducting CAS promotions without a Vice Chancellor is against university rules. The convener committee, being an interim body, lacks empowerment for such decisions according to statutes.
• V. Chandrakumar from the Professors’ Forum urged intervention from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and expressed concerns over academics judging faculty advancements.
• Another complaint by Chitti annapoorna (head of Hindi department) called for an inquiry into alleged irregularities in promotions and PhD guideship awards within her department.
• Counterarguments highlight fairness concerns for retiring faculty members eligible for promotion; delays could affect their opportunities professionally.
• The convener committee plans to officiate the process despite objections.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The ongoing controversy at UoM underscores challenges surrounding adherence to institutional governance norms during leadership transitions.On one side, faculty members argue that procedural irregularities compromise fairness and clarity in advancements. Their concern stems from statutory expectations that promotion processes remain under direct oversight from a full-time Vice Chancellor instead of an interim convener committee.

Alternatively, pressing urgency exists due to impending retirements among eligible professors who risk losing professional mobility if delays persist-a valid counterpoint highlighting practical challenges amidst administrative gaps.

This dispute reflects broader systemic questions around ensuring continuity in governance while preserving meritocracy within academic institutions-a delicate balance crucial not just for individuals involved but also the credibility of public universities in India’s educational landscape.

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