The protest reflects growing discontent among the academic community and draws attention to systemic issues affecting both teaching and non-teaching staff
ALIGARH – Teachers at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) held a protest on Monday, demanding equal pay, proper allowances, and timely implementation of payment scales for senior faculty. The demonstration, led by contract teachers under the AMU Teachers’ Association, took place at the Teaching Staff Club and reflected growing discontent among the academic community.
Dr Ashraf Mateen, speaking at the protest, raised concerns over delayed payments for practical exams and external examiners for PhD viva assessments. “Extra duty allowances are being withheld without explanation,” he said. “The senior professors’ payment scales have not been implemented correctly, which is affecting their careers,” he said.
Dr Mateen further highlighted the lack of representative leadership within the university. “Teacher representatives have not been elected for years, leaving a significant gap in leadership to voice our concerns,” he said. “Similarly, elections for the Non-Teaching Staff Association have not been conducted.”
Protestors carried banners and raised slogans such as “Registrar Go Back,” signalling their frustration with the administration. However, AMU Teachers’ Association chief Prof Tufail Ahmed, who did not attend the protest, clarified his stance. “I do not support the ‘Registrar Go Back’ slogans,” he said. “Such actions should not be attributed to a single individual.”
This protest follows recent demonstrations by AMU students, who protested against increased fees and demanded students’ union elections. The university administration had assured students of action, but the delay in holding elections prompted further student protests.
The contract teachers’ protest highlights broader concerns within AMU regarding fair compensation, transparent administrative processes, and democratic representation within the university. The teachers emphasised the need for immediate resolution of their grievances to ensure smooth functioning of academic activities.
A university spokesperson stated, “We are aware of the teachers’ concerns and are engaging in dialogue to address their demands. We urge all stakeholders to maintain calm and constructive communication.”
The protest has drawn attention to systemic issues affecting both teaching and non-teaching staff at AMU, underscoring the importance of timely implementation of policies and fair treatment for all employees.
