RGNUL faculty threaten pen-down strike over alleged governance irregularities

Faculty members of the Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL), Punjab, have raised serious concerns over what they describe as a decline in transparency, institutional governance and adherence to established procedures at the university.

In an email sent to Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Jai S. Singh on August 10 (accessed by LiveLaw), the faculty members objected to a recent promotion decision, alleging that it was not as per applicable rules and transparency norms. Faculty members are now seeking intervention of university’s Chancellor, Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra, Acting Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, or his nominee.

Moreover, the members have issued a 48-hour notice seeking a personal hearing with the Chancellor or his authorised representative to present their concerns and supporting documents. Faculty have warned that they may withdraw from routine institutional work and proceed with a “pen-down strike” if timely intervention is not provided.

Speaking to LiveLaw, a faculty member said that other members initially decided to withdraw from day-to-day academic and administrative work for 48 hours to enable the Vice-Chancellor to arrange a meeting with the Chancellor. However, following a meeting with the Vice-Chancellor, faculty decided to proceed with a pen-down strike until the Chancellor or his nominee addresses their concerns.

Expressing confidence in the Chancellor, the faculty shared that they have 'utmost faith' that appropriate action would be taken in the interest of the institution.

Concerns raised by faculty members

According to allegations made by RGNUL faculty members , the concerns include the following:

Irregularities in faculty promotions: Faculty members have alleged that the Vice-Chancellor selectively favoured certain individuals. They claimed that in one case, a faculty member was promoted to Associate Professor despite having received a promotion only a year earlier. They also allege that several eligible candidates who had been awaiting promotion since 2022 were allegedly overlooked without adequate justification.

Degradation of academic curriculum: Faculty members have alleged that academic standards are being diluted, with the curriculum reportedly being brought down to a level comparable to senior secondary education. They also criticised directions to provide handwritten notes to students, allegedly on the grounds that “students do not read books.”

Appointments without due process: Faculty members have raised concerns over the appointment of distinguished professors. They allege that few appointments were made without consultation with the Dean or adherence to established procedures.

Inappropriate conduct towards faculty: They have reported claims of inappropriate remarks against faculty members in public settings.

Financial mismanagement: Faculty members have questioned the university’s expenditure priorities, alleging that Rs 6–7 lakh was spent on conferences of questionable relevance and foreign trips without tangible benefits.

Apart from these, faculty members also alleged that they were pressured to undertake ghostwriting for the Vice-Chancellor, raising concerns about academic integrity. The VC allegedly involves employees of other institutions, including Punjab University, in the university’s internal administration and decision-making.