Himachal University Teachers’ Association Opposes Amendment Bill, Calls Meeting on November 5
Shimla, Oct 31: The Himachal Pradesh University Teachers’ Welfare Association has been protesting for the past 56 days, demanding the restoration of university autonomy and promotion benefits for teachers under the Career Advancement Scheme (CAS).
In a press statement, association president Dr Nitin Vyas and general secretary Dr Ankush said the Himachal Pradesh State University Amendment Bill, 2026, introduced by the state government on September 2, could weaken the autonomy of universities by transferring key powers of the Executive Council and Vice-Chancellor to the Finance Secretary.
The association alleged that the proposed changes would undermine academic freedom and adversely affect teaching, research and innovation. It maintained that universities needed autonomy to preserve academic standards and function independently of political interference.
The association said it had repeatedly urged the government to put the Bill on hold and hold consultations with teachers, but the legislation had instead been sent to the Governor for approval.
Teachers, non-teaching employees, research scholars and alumni from universities across the state will assemble at the Himachal Pradesh University auditorium in Summer Hill, Shimla, at 11 am on November 5 to discuss the proposed amendments and decide the future course of the agitation.
The association clarified that its movement was not directed against any political party or government but was aimed at protecting university autonomy, restoring CAS promotions and safeguarding the quality of higher education in Himachal Pradesh.
Samagra Sikhsha
