PU teachers ask for video recording of all interviews

Despite the fact that from time to time, the Panjab University (PU) teaching fraternity has asked for the videography of the interviews for appointments, it seems that authorities have no interest in implementing the demand.

Even Panjab University Teachers Association (PUTA) last year had put forth before the former V-C Prof R C Sobti their request for the videography of the selection process so that no one can question the veracity of the appointments.

Recently, due to certain allegations, the Syndicate meeting had withdrawn three appointments to be made in the Public Administration Department of the varsity. Another appointment done in the Biophysics Department by granting 'extra' marks to one of the candidates had also raised many eyebrows.

Talking to Chandigarh Newsline, the PUTA president said, "We stand by this demand. If proceedings of the Senate are videographed, then why can this not be done in case of selection committees? If the proceedings of the interview panel are videographed, then it will help the varsity when allegations are made. The varsity will have something to show to the candidates blaming it for promoting favouritism."

The faculty of the varsity feel that if videography is done, then it will bring more transparency in the functioning.

"Videography of the selection process will bring transparency and objectivity. It will bring a halt to tampering and moreover, will help in removing doubts," said former PUTA president Prof Akshay Kumar.

A section of the candidates believes that favouritism during the process of appointment exists.

"With certain teachers wanting to fit their students into their departments, they manage the interview process as they want to. Hardly any interview in the varsity done in the past and now has been objectively done," said one of the aggrieved candidates, requesting anonymity.

... contd.

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