DU issues notice to DUTA for drawing power ‘illegally’ at protest venue

Members of DUTA are on a hunger strike to protest against DU’s reform polices. A tent has been put up for the purpose and microphones and speakers have been installed at the venue.

The registrar’s letter also referred to a notice issued in 2010,in which associations “were specifically directed to desist from erection of tent and drawing of electricity supply illegally without prior permission”.

Stating that drawing of electricity in this manner was illegal under Delhi Electricity Act,the letter “advised” DUTA to comply with regulations,which include the setting up of fire-resistant tent. It also asked DUTA to submit their “compliance to the above minimum safeguard by by 4 pm on Wednesday”.

DUTA members said they received the letter on Wednesday afternoon,and have not replied to it yet. DUTA President Amar Deo Sharma said,“On the eighth day,they have realised that this tent is illegal. Despite sending around 57 letters to the V-C,we have not received a single reply from him.”

Abha Habib,a DUTA member who teaches Physics at Miranda House said,“It is unfortunate that the university has stooped to such a low. If the V-C thinks that what we are doing is illegal,then he is free to get the police to arrest us.”