Himachal Pradesh University Staff Protest Delayed Salaries, Threaten Hunger Strike

Protest Against Salary Delays

Shimla — Today, members of the Himachal Pradesh University Teachers’ Welfare Association and the Non-Teaching Staff Union gathered outside the Vice-Chancellor's office to voice their frustration over the ongoing delays in salary payments. The protest saw significant participation from both teaching and non-teaching staff, who boycotted classes for the day and chanted slogans demanding fair treatment.

Union leaders accused the state government of unfairly treating university employees, asserting that while other state workers have received their salaries on time, university staff continue to experience delays. Dr. Nitin Vyas, the Association President, stated, “This is unprecedented; all other employees have been paid on time while we are still waiting,” labeling it a failure of bureaucratic responsibility.

The union also pointed out the stagnation in Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) promotions, noting that no faculty member has been promoted since 2022, which adversely affects academic progress and the university's reputation. They claimed that the state government has unjustly halted these promotions, leaving many educators in limbo.

Additionally, staff members are still waiting for a 13% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) and the arrears associated with the 2016 UGC pay scale, both of which remain unresolved. Dr. Ankush, the Union General Secretary, remarked, “While the state allocates funds generously in other sectors, there appears to be a lack of resources when it comes to compensating employees.”

Union representatives warned that they would escalate their protests if their demands are not met, including the possibility of initiating a hunger strike if the situation remains unchanged.