My Favorite Quote of the day

All Life is an Experiment. The more you make the better it becomes.................... Ralph Waldo Emerson



Monday, May 31, 2010

Dr. M. Athar Ansari attended the 10th South East Asian Regional Scientific Meeting of International Epidemiological Association (SEARSM-IEA, 2010)

*ALIGARH May 31:* Dr. M. Athar Ansari, Chairman, Department of Community
Medicine, J. N. Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University attended
the 10th South East Asian Regional Scientific Meeting of International
Epidemiological Association (SEARSM-IEA, 2010) at Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The meeting was organized by the College of Community Physicians, Colombo,
Sri Lanka. The theme of this meet was “Epidemiological Methods in Evidence
Based Healthcare. The aim of organizing the regional conference was to
facilitate communication amongst those engaged in research and teaching of
epidemiology throughout the world and to encourage its use in all fields of
health including social community and preventive medicine.

Dr. Ansari also presented a paper titled “An Evaluation of Profile of Food
Handlers and Kitchen Hygiene in Eating Establishments in Aligarh (India)”.
He gave an introduction of Aligarh Muslim University and Department of
Community Medicine followed by a detailed presentation of data of food
handlers and kitchen hygiene of eating establishments and methods of
prevention of epidemics of food and water borne diseases. He co-chaired a
scientific session on non-communicable diseases.

Dr. Z. A. Dental College, AMU is organizing a treatment camp

*ALIGARH May 31:* The Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Z.
A. Dental College, Aligarh Muslim University is organizing a treatment camp
for cleft lip, palate, and correction of nose deformities associated with
cleft lip or secondary to cleft lip repair by a team of German experts. The
treatment will be carried free of cost with free admission facilities.
However, registration prior to treatment is mandatory. The patients who were
operated elsewhere and still live with some residual deformities may also
avail the benefits at the camp.

The registration of the patients will be done on 6th June (Sunday) from 8:30
a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Dr. Z. A. Dental College, Aligarh Muslim University,
Aligarh. For further details please contact Dr. Fahmi on 9634981987 and Dr.
Ahmed on 9997453187 or the chairman, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial
Surgery, Dr. Z. A. Dental College, Aligarh Muslim University.

Saturday, May 29, 2010

Dr. G. G. Hammad Ahmad Shadab conferred with Fellowship of Academy of Science

*ALIGARH May 29:* Dr. G. G. Hammad Ahmad Shadab, Senior Lecturer in the
Section of Genetics, Department of Zoology, AMU, Aligarh has been conferred
with Fellowship of Academy of Science for Animal Welfare in recognition of
his outstanding contribution for advancement of Science and Welfare.

Dr. Shadab did research on "Cytogenetic and clinical studies of certain
steroids on human chromosomes". He has significantly contributed in the
field of Human Genetics and Genetic Toxicology. Dr. Shadab has teaching
experience of more than a decade and published more than 15 papers in the
area of environmental and genetic toxicology in reputed national and
international journals. He has attended several National and International
conferences, workshops and hands-on-trainings in the field of genetics and
molecular biology and presented many papers and posters. He has a text book
of Industrial Zoology to his credit which is ready for publication. He is
life member of several national and international societies like Indian
Society of Cell Biology, Environmental Mutagen Society of India, National
Environmental Science Academy, Society of Biological Chemists of India,
Indian Science Congress Association, Zoological Society of India, Indian
Society of Human Genetics, Indian Society of Developmental Biology, Society
of Cytologists and Geneticists, International Society of Zoological
Sciences, Nutrition Society of India, Society of Toxicology, India, National
Educational Society, The Academy of Environmental Biology, National Academy
of Biological Sciences and Associate of the Academy of Sciences for Animal
Welfare.

He was awarded SRF in 2001 and was appointed Research Assistant in 2002 by
CSIR. He was awarded Young Scientist Fellowship in 2005 by DST, Ministry of
Science and Technology, Government of India. He is also associated as
resource person with the Centre for Professional Courses and Centre for
Promotion of Science, AMU, Aligarh.

Dr. Shadab is an elected Member of the Academic Council, AMU, Aligarh and
nominated Member of the Academic Council, University of Science and
Technology, Meghalaya.

AMU: National Consultation on Special Centres and Politics behind/beyond it

It is being heard that the AMU-VC is going for a National Consultation Meeting at Delhi on 30th May or 3rd June 2010. It will consist of some of the former Vice Chancellors of AMU and few other such dignitaries to discuss the issue of "Special Centres" to be made operational at Malappuram and Murshidabad.

There are few questions/issues that strike our mind:

1. Will they discuss the legalities of such “Special Centres”?

2. Is AMU really capable of managing its “Special Centres” located far away, more so when it is earning disrepute for various kinds of irregularities, strongly testified by the Principal Accountant General Report (November 2009), besides so many incriminating documents circulating in public domain obtained through RTI? The media is increasingly reporting it widely, and frequently.

3. Troubles and upsurges, often engineered by not so unknown conspirators suggest that AMU is not capable of managing such far located Special Centres.

4. Deeply entrenched corruption in purchase, contracts, supplies and Dining Halls also suggest the in-capabilities of AMU.

5. AMU’s deep, consistent tolerance for corruption and irregularities and its wanton unwillingness to punish the culprits, the illegally recruited/ promoted employees also suggest the in-capabilities of AMU.

Recently, the AMU failed to distribute Exam.Hall Tickets to the candidates creating a lot of difficulties, particularly to the students of Eastern India. There was irregularity in PG Medical Entrance Test but the concerned Deputy Controller has not been punished.

There are complaints from the teachers that they are not getting basic minimum of infratstructural facilities despite the availability of fund.



In short, consolidation, rather than expansion should probably be the prioritized concern of the AMU.



6. Most important of all, whether such an exercise in consultation and AMU’s expansion is intended to do a cover up on the exposes of most outrageous cases of corruption and irregularities?

7. Whether the tainted high functionaries are trying to hide the corruption/ inquiry under the carpet of “Doing-great, laudable-things- for-Muslims’- Educational- Uplift”? [The deadlines of the inquiry are painfully being extended time and again. It is putting the two judges under litmus-tests. Common self-less Aligs are becoming apprehensive and restless]



One hopes, the conscience keepers of the nation/ community are wise enough to read between (into and beyond) the lines.

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Prof. P. K. Abdul Azis today felicitated the toppers of Class XII and Class X annual examinations

ALIGARH May 25: The Vice Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University Prof. P. K. Abdul Azis today felicitated the toppers of Class XII and Class X annual examinations and presented certificates of merit and mementos at his lodge.


Third Topper of Class XII Vibhor Aggarwal receiving the memento and certificate, Vibhor also topped the B. Tech Entrance Test of AMU this year





He said that the University has decided to adopt CBSE pattern to provide better access to the school students maintained by the University. He said that the University has decided to establish a Directorate of the University Schools.

Prof. Azis said that now AMU is on resurgent track. He congratulated the students, teachers and parents.

AMU Registrar and Manager of Schools Prof. V. K. Abdul Jaleel said that for the first time University has arranged such a function to invite toppers at school level. He said that 50% school students enrolled in the schools are the backbone of the University system. Prof. Jaleel said that this year pass percentage in schools has substantially improved.

The Controller of Exams, Prof. Pervez Mustajab said that the third rank holder of Class XII, Mr. Vibhor Aggarwal has secured first position in B. Tech admission test of the University.

On this occasion, Mrs. Nagma Irfan, Principal, Senior Secondary School (Girls), Mr. Faisal Nafees, Principal, S. T. S. High School and all the rank holders of Class X and XII also addressed the function.

Prof. Ainul Haq Khan, DSW proposed a vote of thanks.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

MOST-URGENT-ADVERTISEMENT IN UNIVERSITY WEBSITE

Residential Coaching Academy

Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh



(A free coaching programme for Minority/SC/ ST (40% for women) candidates only)



Residential Coaching Academy, established by UGC in AMU, Aligarh is going to conduct a National Entrance Test for admission to the courses of Coaching for Civil / Judicial Services Examination as per following details:



Test Centres : 1. Aligarh 2. Srinagar 3. Lucknow

4. Patna 5. Calcutta 6. Guwahati 7. Kozhikode



Date & Time of Test : 15th July 2010 (Thursday) 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon

Last Date for Submission of Application Forms: 15th June, 2010

Nature of Test for Civil Services: Objective-type/ Multiple choice questions containing General Studies & subjects prescribed for Civil Services (Preliminary Exam)



Nature of Test for Judicial Services: Objective-type/ Multiple choice questions containing General Studies & subjects prescribed for PCS (J) (Preliminary Exam)





Application forms can be obtained from the Office of the Residential Coaching Academy or download or apply online from our website www.rcaamu.com and submit (form/PDF copy) to the Office of the Director, Residential Coaching Academy, AMU, Aligarh, by hand or sent by Registered Post / Speed Post or through Courier so as to reach up to 05:00 pm on or before 15th June, 2010. For more details please contact:

Phone Nos.: 0571-2701760, 09927057499, 09897222287. Email ID: zukhairoowaladirect orrca@gmail. com





Prof. Ziauddin Khairoowala, Director Prof. Naima Khatoon, Deputy Director

AMU team on a visit to Kishanganj to inspect land for AMU Campus


AMU VC Prof. P. K. Abdul Azus welcomed by the District Magistrate of Kishanganj Mr. Firaque Ahmad


ALIGARH May 24: The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) team led by the Vice Chancellor Prof. P. K. Abdul Azis received an enthusiastic welcome at Bagdogra airport as thousands of people came to receive the AMU team and taken them in a convoy of over 150 vehicles from Bagdogra airport to Kishanganj, almost one hundred kilometers.




The AMU team was on a visit to Kishanganj to inspect 250 acres of land identified by Bihar government for establishing Special Centre of AMU under the provision 12(2) of AMU Act.

Prof. P. K. Abdul Azis made a detailed inspection of the site and discussed the various aspects relating to the transfer of land with the Collector of Kishanganj, Mr. Feraque Ahmad and other district officials. The AMU team also had an interaction with the local people who lived in the vicinity of the proposed land.

The visiting team was accompanied by Member Parliament of Kishanganj, Maulana Asrarul Haque Qasmi, the Collector of Kishanganj district, Mr. Feraque Ahmad, the MLA of Kishanganj, Mr. Akhtarul Imaan, MLA of Purnea district, Mr. Jaleel Rahman, another MLA of the area Mr. Gopal Agrawal and a team of district officials.

The Vice Chancellor has expressed satisfaction about the location of the site but has suggested to the district officials that the land should be contiguous and in one piece instead of being scattered in three pieces. The Vice Chancellor has further stated that the management and administration, security related issues, maintenance of discipline, building of common facilities and easier access to both students and staff necessitate having the Centre in one place.

The Collector and other officials present expressed confidence that the suggestion of the Vice Chancellor could be managed by finding out appropriate solution.

The common people of the area as well as the elites of the district urged the Vice Chancellor to bring the AMU Centre to Kishanganj at any cost. A delegation comprising intellectuals of the Kishanganj district also met the AMU team and urged the Vice Chancellor to see that their dream of having a modern educational institution with a glorious past is translated into reality.

The Kishanganj Public Reception Committee organized a banquette in honour of the Vice Chancellor Prof. P. K. Abdul Azis at Madrasa Anjuman-e-Islamia. The programme was attended by a large number of people of the area.

Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Azis said that the enthusiasm, love and affection showed by the people of Kishanganj touched the heart of AMU visiting team and the University is set to establish the state-of-the- art centre at a place which is one of the most backward districts of the country so that not only the Muslims but also the people of surrounding regions get an access to quality education.

Tracing the genesis of Aligarh Muslim University’s efforts in the direction of educational uplift, he said that the alarming situation raised by Sachar Committee and the suggestions made in the Fatmi Committee have drawn AMU’s attention on taking the historical initiative of establishing five special centres across the country including Kishanganj so that the minorities who are the most excluded social class get access to education.

Prof. Saud Alam Qasmi, Dean, Faculty of Theology, AMU said that the initiative is going to benefit all the people irrespective of caste, creed and religion. He said that the Aligarh Muslim University is a citadel of secularism. On the one hand, it is having the Zakir Husain College of Engineering and Technology and on the other, it has the Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College. There is a Begum Sultan Jahan hostel and the Sarojini Naidu Hall for girls at the same time. Saheb Singh Verma, former Chief Minister of Delhi, Bheem Singh, President of Panthers’ Party and a host of other non-Muslims are its proud alumni. Like the sun, AMU spreads its light among every one without any discrimination.

While welcoming the AMU team, the Member of Parliament from Kishanganj, Maulana Asrarul Haque Qasmi said that the coming of AMU to Kishanganj is like a dream turning into reality. Presenting the statistics, he said that hardly 31% people of the region are literate and the literacy among Muslims is at 24%. Maulana Qasmi hoped that by the establishment of AMU Centre the situation is likely to change as access to education is going to become easier for all.

The Collector of the district, Mr. Feraque Ahmad, SP Dr. Chaurasiya Chandra Shekhar Azad, MLA Mr. Akhtarul Imaan, the members of the visiting team Prof. Ekram Husain, Principal of Zakir Husain College of Engineering and Technology, Prof. Javed Akhtar, Dean, Facultry of Management Studies and Prof. N. A. K. Durrani, Chairman, Department of Mass Communication and Media Advisor also spoke on the occasion.

Prof. M. Haneef Alam, Convener, Reception Committee proposed a vote of thanks.

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Dr. M. R. Ajmal spoke on the occasion of World Hepatitis Day




ALIGARH May 19: “Chronic Hepatitis is like termite infestation of liver", said Dr. M. R. Ajmal, In charge of Gastro Enterology Clinic, Department of Medicine, J. N. Medical Coillege, Aligarh Muslim University. Dr. Ajmal was speaking at a programme organized to observe the World Hepatitis Day that falls on 19th May every year. The programme was organized to increase public awareness regarding Hepatitis-B and Hepatitis-C virus infection.



Prof. Ajmal said that Hepatitis-B virus infection is most serious health problem affecting more than 2 billion people worldwide with mortality of 0.5 - 1.2 million every year. He said that although effective vaccines against Hepatitis-B is available since 1982 there are still more than 350 million chronic carriers of which 75% reside in Asia-Pacific region. India contribute nearly 10% carriers to the world. Nearly one million HBV infections are added to Hepatitis-B pool in India yearly contributing to its rapid expansion.

Prof. Ajmal exhorted that chronic Hepatitis may be asymptomatic, therefore a high level of suspicion is required to detect the disease early. The high risk group cases like health workers, relatives of chronic hepatitis patients, persons with unsafe, multiple sex partners, kidney disease patients on dialysis, persons getting frequent blood transfusion must be screened for hepatitis infection. Extra precaution should be taken at the time of Nose/Ear piercing, Tattooing and at barber's shop. Effective vaccination against Hepatitis A & B is available at affordable cost. He said that treatment for chronic Hepatitis B & C is suitably available in injectable and oral forms.

The banners and posters at important places were used for mass awareness. The handbills and booklets were also distributed at J.N. Medical College Hospital OPDs. Prof. Ajmal said that screening camps for Hepatitis-B/ Hepatitis- C virus infection are also planned to make the awareness programme more effective. Anyone who wish to seek more information may contact Dr. M. R. Ajmal, G.E. Clinic, OPD-22 on any Saturday at J. N. Medical College Hospital.

Prof. M. Ashraf Malik, Principal and CMS, JNMC also expressed his views while Prof. S. Abrar Hasan, Dean Faculty of Medicine proposed vote of thanks. A large number of faculty members and SR, JR were also present.

The result of Class X (Annual Examination-2010) of AMU declared

ALIGARH May 19: The result of Secondary School Certificate (Class X) Annual Examination- 2010 of the Aligarh Muslim University has been declared today.

The Controller of Exams, Prof. Pervez Mustajab said that Amina Haroon of Girls High School secured First Position with 92% marks. Zaki Anwar Naqvi and Umang Bhardwaj of S. T. High School secured Second and Third position with 91.80% and 90.80% marks respectively.

This year the University maintained schools have shown a substantial improvement in the pass percentage compared with the last year’s performance. The S. T. High School has achieved 90.68% result compared with the last year’s 80%. Similarly the City High School students’ pass percentage has increased from 73.47% to 83.25%. Likewise City Girls High School’s pass percentage has increased from 41.1% to 58.21%. One can also notice a remarkable percentage improvement in Ahmadi School for Blind’s performance from 33.33% to 66.67%.

The students of Class X have also shown improvement in terms of great number of first classes. Compared with the previous year’s figures of 371 first classes this year a total of 502 students have secured first division.

The Vice Chancellor Prof. P. K. Abdul Azis has congratulated the teachers of University schools for displaying remarkable commitment and dedication that has resulted in substantial improvement in the pass percentage and in securing first class by the students. He has also greatly appreciated the students for working hard and for maintaining discipline. He urged the students and staff to help the University in maintaining peace and tranquility so that the University can scale greater academic heights.

Sunday, May 16, 2010

AMU conducts Class XI Admission Test, More than twenty Nine Thousand students appear in the test



ALIGARH May 15: The Combined Admission Test for admission to Class Xi (Science)/Diploma in Engineering for the Aligarh Muslim University was conducted in peaceful manner at 47 centres here today. More than twenty nine thousand candidates including XI (Arts & Commerce) appeared in the test. AMU has also conducted its entrance test for Class XI (Science) and Diploma in Engineering at three centres in Lucknow.



The Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Pervez Qamar Rizvi, University Registrar Prof. V. K. Abdul Jaleel, Finance Officer Mrs. Yasmeen Jalal Beg, Proctor Prof. M. Zubair Khan and DSW Prof. Ainul Haq Khan visited most of the test centres.



AMU had also deputed senior faculty members as observers. About one dozen Senior Faculty Members were appointed as overall incharge at the six centres located outside the University campus to look after the smooth conduct of the admission test.

The Universities also provided the accommodation to the outside candidates and their parents at the University premises. Special help camps were organized by the National Service Scheme (NSS) of the University at Railway Station and other important places to provide guidance to the candidates.

The District Administration also provided all necessary assistance to conduct the test in a smooth manner.

In order to maintain transparency and to avoid the possibility of use of unfair means during the entrance test University has arranged videography at all test centres.

Allahabad High Court has directed the Investigating Officers in Siras Case

ALIGARH May 15: The Allahabad High Court has directed the Investigating Officers in Siras Case not to lay hand or arrest Prof. M. Zubair Khan, Dr. Rahat Abrar, Dr. Fareed Khan and Prof. N. A. K. Durrani, Proctor, PRO, Deputy Proctor and Media Advisor respectively of Aligarh Muslim University unless he collects credible information against them with respect to crime in case crime nos. 202/2010 under sections 347, 352, 452, 454, 455, 457, 458, 506, 34 and 120-B of IPC, PS Civil Lines, Aligarh.

The above orders have been passed by the Bench comprising Mr. Justice Vinod Prasad and Mr. Justice Rajesh Chandra after hearing Senior Advocate Mr. S. M. A. Kazmi assisted by Mrs. Tahira Kazmi and Mr. S. I. Siddiqui advocates.

Learned Senior Counsel, Mr. S. M. A. Kazmi informed the University that the Court has, however, opined that the investigation in view of the disclosure of cognizable offence in the FIR should proceed in fair and impartial manner. The Court refused the primary relief of quashing the FIR. Arguing on behalf of petitioners it was pointed out by Mr. Kazmi that the complainant Dr. Siras as per admitted version in the FIR was indulging in the act of homosexuality with a rickshaw puller. A sting operation by some media persons including one Adil Murtaza was conducted. The above four petitioners/ high officials of the University had gone on the spot on receipt of the report in discharge of their functions and duties as Proctors and PROs of the University and submitted a report next morning before the Vice Chancellor of the University who put Siras under suspension on 9.2.2010.

Dr. Siras was served with a chargesheet on 24.2.2010. Apparently he had filed the FIR on 4.3.2010 as an after-thought to save his face and skin by alleging that as soon as the sting operation was complete the aforesaid Professor came on the spot without his invitation which act smacks of their collusion. The suspension order was stayed by High Court on 1.4.2010 on a writ petition filed by Dr. Siras in pursuance of which his reinstatement ordered were passed on 5.4.2010, however, Dr. Siras died on 7.4.2010. The CJM Aligarh passed the orders for registration of FIR filed by Dr. Siras on 4.3.2010 and the same was registered on 9.4.2010. One of the media personnel Adil Murtaza came to High Court through his council Meraj Ahmad seeking quashing of FIR and arrest stay which was dismissed.

Mr. Kazmi while arguing before the bench further pointed out that the present case of Professor is distinguishable for the reason that they all are the administrative authorities of the University and their arrival on the scenario was in the discharge of their duty. In this backdrop, the bench passed the aforesaid order.

Saturday, May 8, 2010

AMU Campuses vs Special Centres vs Visitor’s Permission

Prof. Azis declared that the according of the permission by the Visitor to establish Centres (under Section 12[2] of AMU Act) at Murshidabad (the constituency of the very powerful Shri Pranab Mukherjee, believed to be the force behind it) and Mallapuram (Prof. Azis’s home State) is the happiest moment of his life.

Because he has served the Congress bosses well or served the AMU, Aligarh movement and Muslims at large - Having made no secret of the admission policy by Prof. Azis (though not authorized) that there shall be no quota and admissions shall be made on the basis of All India Entrance test, and status of the proposed Centres is not known as the Minority Status of AMU itself is not known (case pending in Supreme Court) where is the confusion. These Centres have nothing to do with Muslims the way AMU has. It is a different matter that Prof. Azis, the AMU, VC has preferred to sit on the other side of the fence.

Legality and Academic aspects:

Under Section 12(2) the Visitor is empowered to permit establishment of’ Special Centres’, ‘Special Labs’, etc and not Centres. ‘Special Centre’ and Centre are not synonymous as Centre is treated equivalent to department (rightly or wrongly) while ‘Special Centre’ is only a supplementary facility to an existing department.

Furthermore, if a Centre (i.e. a department) is intended, the amendment of the Statutes is a must [Statutes 20(2)(b)]

Therefore, if the Visitor intended to accord permission for a ‘Centre’ it is clearly beyond her powers and a blunder, and the error or the oversight needs to be rectified forthwith, before the President is dragged into controversies.

If we recall, it was till yesterday and all the way, ‘AMU Campuses’ and the VC was making all the tall claims and has even taken several step (unauthorized) . But this turn around has a very strong reason- no University can establish two identical departments/ Centres, leave alone Campuses.

Finally but undeniably AMU is debarred from establishing a Campus/ a department/ a Centre/ Special Centre, whatever, beyond 25kms of the University Mosque under the Section 5(9A) of the AMU, Act, so that the Residential character remains protected.

The Govt. is playing game with AMU and the Muslims, for electoral gains, by making false and impracticable promises and unfortunately the honourable VC, whose helpfulness is too well known now, has played in the powerful hands of the Govt. in this brazen way. Are we so helpless???

Resolution of General Body of AMUTA dated 6th May 2010

ALIGARH MUSLIM UNIVERSITY TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION

Jamshed Siddiqui

Hony. Secretary


Teaching Staff Club

A.M.U., Aligarh-202002

0571-2700777 (R)

09897267054




May 8, 2010



Resolution passed by the General Body of Aligarh Muslim University Teachers’ Association (AMUTA) in its special meeting held on 6.5.2010 at 8:00 P.M. in the Staff Club.



Item no. 1

This meeting of the General Body of the AMUTA is of the firm view that its members and students of the University are continuously under surveillance through what has now come to be known as the Local Intelligence Unit (LIU) employed over and above the existing watch and ward staff. The addition of more than seventy CCTV cameras has intensified and changed the nature of surveillance immensely. The General Body felt that this surveillance of the campus apart from creating a sense of insecurity and harassment also sends the message that the campus is a den of criminals and anti-national elements, to keep an eye on whom high tech surveillance is absolutely necessary. No other campus in the Country has such extensive surveillance. The more disturbing aspect which has come to light is that police and intelligence agencies have been a party to the decision of creating a high tech surveillance of the campus, in short of the Muslim intelligentsia, infringing on the autonomy of the University. The surveillance system is viewed with suspicion on campus as if the UPA government is a party to it. The General Body further learnt from the recent AG(UP) report that this high tech surveillance is financed through re-appropriation of University funds that could have been more gainfully employed to enhance research and academics in the University. The incidents of September of 2007 are made an excuse for such intensive surveillance while not implementing the decision of the Executive Council to constitute a single judge inquiry commission to pin the culprits.

This General Body out-rightly rejects the entire surveillance system operating on the campus and resolves that CCTV apparatus and structure and the so called LIU operating on the campus be dismantled immediately.



Item no. 2

This meeting of the General Body of the AMUTA took note of the various disciplinary proceedings pending against teachers. The General Body strongly felt that these arbitrary proceedings are conducted ignoring the law and principles of natural justice as a means of harassment of teachers. Some teachers are under suspension for several years while others are facing inquiry committees for several years. There are teachers recommended for promotion by statutory selection committees but there appointment orders are kept in abeyance on the pretext of inquiry being contemplated/ held against them in sheer violation of verdict of the Supreme Court of India (2007). The University is not willing to

- 2 -





act even in cases where the inquiry reports have been submitted. Of such cases the most shocking and outrageous is the case of (Late) Dr. SR Siras. The University administration has preferred not to convene a condolence meeting for the departed soul. The University did not revoke the suspension of Dr. Siras despite the High Court judgment of 1st April 2010 staying the order of suspension. The revocation order was served on 8th April 2010, i.e., a day after the death of Dr. Siras. Further, the University has cold shelved the entire case and is stoically not making an effort to complete the inquiry in the whole episode.

The General Body demands reiterating its earlier resolutions to immediately revoke the suspension of teachers, to expedite the inquiries and issue appointment orders. The General Body will have no other choice but to adopt agitational means after the summer vacation in an effort to get justice.

The Proctor himself confessed before the General Body that he invaded the privacy of Dr. Siras, moreover by not registering FIR against so-called stingers, the attitude of the University administration is crystal clear. The General Body feels that the University administration is morally responsible for the tragic death of Dr. Siras and resolved to constitute a three member Fact Finding Committee to submit a report on the events leading to the death of Dr. Siras to be constituted by the Executive Committee.

The General Body further felt that the Public Relations Officer rushes to the press to issue statements which brings disrepute to the teaching community. The General Body in the strongest possible terms condemns this and demands that the Public Relations Officer should be restraint from rushing in this manner in future.

Arising out of discussion the General Body resolved to prepare a white paper on the present University administration and to take delegations of its senior members to meet the President of India, Prime Minister and Shrimati Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson UPA, to apprise them of the plight of the AMU community and the state of affairs on the campus.

Letter From Prof. Ziauddin Khairoowala Regarding Residential Coaching Academy (Coaching and Guidance Centre, AMU)

I would like to inform you that in pursuance of Office Memo No. F.2-43-EP/DS/ 4052 dated 15.02.2010, I have taken over the charge of Director, Residential Coaching Academy (Coaching & Guidance Centre, AMU) and Prof. Naima Khatoon has taken over charge of Deputy Director of the said Academy.



In this regard I would like to state that though I have taken over the responsibility as Director of the Academy but it will not be possible for me to run the academy without your support, cooperation and your valuable suggestions. Sometimes we will invite you as an honored guest to share your rich experiences and to motivate the aspirants of the following competitive examinations: -

1. Civil Services Examination – UPSC

2. Provincial Services Examinations

3. Judicial Services [PCS (J)]

4. Public Sector Banks and Insurance

5. Indian Railway Services

I would like to bring to your kind notice that Residential Coaching Academy (RCA), Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh is going to conduct its first National Level Entrance Test for the admission to the courses of coaching of Central Civil Services/State PCS (E)/Judicial Services Examination probably in 15th July 2010 at the following centers of the country unanimously. The pattern of the question paper of the aforesaid entrance test will be objective and multiple choice questions.



1. Aligarh 2. Patna 3. Lucknow

4. Srinagar 5. Kolkatta 6. Guwahati

7. Kozhikode



Further, I would like to bring to your kind notice that consequent upon ceaseless and sincere efforts of our visionary, dynamic Vice-Chancellor Prof. P.K. Abdul Azis, the Ministry of HRD has honoured to AMU to establish a Residential Coaching Academy for Minorities/SCs/ STs & Women. The features and instructions which have been laid down by the UGC to run the Academy as per letter No. F.56-1-2009 (CU) dated 09.09.2009 are as follows:



1. The University would start coaching programme for about 200 students initially; the Academy shall begin with 100 candidates.

2. The admissions to the coaching courses shall be through a national level entrance test conducted by Residential Coaching Academy , Aligarh .

3. The Academy will design their courses in such a way that in addition to the coaching for central and state services exams the students may also prepare for other services such SSC, Banking services etc. The course modules will include communication skills and personality development with computer usage.

4. Academy will develop core competency to prepare its own course material.

5. The Academy will arrange temporary accommodation so that the coaching classes could be started immediately;

6. The University will consider reservation for women upto 40%.

7. No tuition fee will be charged, however, a nominal fee towards registration and charges for hostel accommodation and meals can be collected by the Academy.

8. Resources in the form of faculty and course material will be shared by the four universities (AMU, Maulana Azad National Urdu University , Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University and Jamia Hamdard).

9. Academy will make all possible efforts to avail the facilities of best resource persons of their respective fields.

10. Honorarium for taking classes by the outside faculty will be at par with the honorarium provided in the Academic Staff College , AMU, Aligarh .

11. The Academy will offer stipend @ Rs. 2000/= per month to the 20% of the total admitted students on the basis of mean-cum-merit. The guidelines in respect of income criteria issued by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and Ministry of Minority Affairs will be adopted.

12. Vice-Chancellor/ Professor/ In-Charge of the Residential Coaching Academies of four universities (AMU, Maulana Azad National Urdu University , Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University and Jamia Hamdard) will meet on regular basis to share healthy practice, resources and expertise etc.

13. Experience in respect of organizing coaching classes and other related activities need to be documented.

14. The project of the academy will be on project mode and all activities including the engagement of staff will be co-terminus with the project.

15. UGC XI Plan general Development Guidelines in respect of construction work will be followed.

Entrance test for the admission to MBBS/BDS Held Today

ALIGARH May 8: Aligarh Muslim University today hold its entrance test for the admission to MBBS/BDS at Aligarh, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Bhopal and Kozhikode.




More than twenty one thousand candidates appeared for this prestigious course at six centres. The admission test was conducted in a peaceful manner at thirteen test centres at Aligarh covering more than nine thousand candidates.




The Vice Chancellor Prof. P. K. Abdul Azis, Controller of Exams, Prof. Pervez Mustajab, University Registrar, Prof. V. K. Abdul Jaleel and Proctor, Prof. M. Zubair Khan visited most of the test centres. Elaborate security arrangements were made out at the campus to conduct the test. The civil administration also provided all necessary assistance to conduct the test in a smooth manner.

Special help camps were organized by the NSS of the University at Railway Station and other important places to provide guidance to the candidates.

The University authorities also provided the accommodation facilities to the candidates and their parents for stay at the University premises.

Senior most serving professors of the University were deputed as observers to various test centres. In order to maintain transparency and to avoid the possibility of use of unfair means during the test, the University had arranged videography at all test centres.

Friday, May 7, 2010

Seminar on the works of Prof. Zahida Zaidi

*ALIGARH May 6:* A seminar was organized in the Faculty of Arts Lounge,
Aligarh Muslim University on the works of Prof. Zahida Zaidi, noted Urdu and
English poet, dramatist and critic and former teacher at Department of
English. The celebrated Urdu poet Prof. Shahryar, renowned historian Prof.
Irfan Habib, Sahitya Academy Award winner Urdu critic Prof. Abul Kalam Qasmi
and President Award winning scholar Prof. Azarmi Dukht Safavi including
teachers from Tikaram, Varshney and D. S. college attended the seminar.

The seminar discussed the work of Prof. Zahida Zaidi from various angles.
Mr. Mohd Asim Siddiqui discussed the English criticism of Zahida Zaidi at
length. He said that the literary criticism produced at the Aligarh Muslim
University echoes the critical approaches adopted by I. A. Richards, T. S.
Eliot and F.R Leavis. Like her many predecessors in India and the West,
Zahida Zaidi's criticism is enriched by her learning. Its range is often
very wide. She can choose to write on a subject as ambitious as the image of
a man in absurd drama doing justice to her topic. Zahida Zaidi's criticism
bears humanist approach.

Mr. Asim Siddiqui said that Zaidi's criticism is based on assumptions of
order, unity and truth. It definitely makes for interesting reading in a
time when search for certitudes is really desperate. At some places in her
writings, though, she appears very radical in her stance. She considers
feminism a limiting ideology. She speaks against in her address to the
readers in her collection of poems titled *Shame-E-Tanhai* . She would not
like to be pigeonholed as a feminist, feminist poet, dramatist or critic.

Professor Saghir Afrahim and Ayesha Munira discussed Zahida Zahida's novel
"Inquilab Ka Ek Din" from two different angles. Sami Rafiq elaborated the
divine element in Zaidi's Urdu poetry. Nazish Fatima read a paper on the
Urdu criticism of Zaidi. Prof. Seemin Hasan discussed the poetry of Zaidi in
a feminist perspective. Dr. Samina Khan and Dr. M. Sufiyan Islahi were quite
moved by Zaidi's drama and poetry on Gujarat genocide.

Several other scholars include Dr. Siraj Ajmali, Amodini Shridharan, Kishwar
Zafir, Haris Qadeer and Habib Subhan read paper on this occasion. Prof.
Zahida Zaidi herself spoke on her creative process. Several progressive
writers were also present in the programme. The organizers of the programme
Prof. Tasadduq Husain and Dr. Mohd Asim Siddiqui also spoke on Zahida
Zaidi's critical dexterity. Dr. Suhaib Sherwani, Prof. Asif Naqvi and Dr.
Ved Prakash were present in the programme.

AMU Organized Seminar on Sentinel Surveillance Unit (SSU)

*ALIGARH May 6:* The Department of Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru
Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University organized a seminar on Sentinel
Surveillance Unit (SSU) to discuss the achievements of SSU. This centre is
functioning under the National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB),
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.

Dr. M. Athar Ansari, Coordinator, SSU and Chairman Department of Community
Medicine welcomed the guests and participants. Prof. S. Abrar Hasan, Dean,
Faculty of Medicine congratulated the Department of Community Medicine and
SSU for carrying out various activities for the prevention and control of
blindness.

Prof. M. Ashraf Malik, Principal and Chief Medical Superintendent, J.N.
Medical College appreciated the efforts of SSU and urged to use the services
of Central Record Section which has been computerized.

Prof. R.R. Sukul, Director, Institute of Ophthalmology, JNMC gave an
overview of National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) and assured
for the better coordination between the two departments of SSU.

Prof. F. Azra Jilani, Incharge, SSU discussed functions of SSU in the
ophthalmology OPD and identified areas where further improvement could be
initiated.

Prof. Zulfia Khan, former Coordinator, SSU presented an overview of SSU
since its inception in 2001. She suggested the measures to be taken to place
the SSU at rank one in the country.

Dr. M. Athar Ansari, Prof. Zulfia Khan, Prof. F. Azra Jeelani, and Dr. Meena
Zaidi made presentations on various topics related to blindness, refractive
errors, glaucoma etc. A group discussion to reduce the burden of the
blindness and other ocular morbidities in the community was also organized.
It was emphasized that proper data entry will be done for onward
transmission of correct data to the higher centres.

Prof. Najam Khalique, Medical Superintendent presented a vote of thank. Dr.
Razia Khan, CMO, Gandhi Eye Hospital, Prof. Shamim Ahmad, Prof. Humayun
Ashraf, Prof. M. Ashraf, Dr. Ali Raza Rizvi, Dr. Ankur Singhal, Dr. A. R.
Siddiqui, Dr. Iqbal M. Khan, Dr. Suboohi Afzal, Dr. Anees Ahmad, Dr. Saira
Mehnaz, Dr. Diwan Israr Khan, Mr. S. Hasan Ahmad, Dr. S. N. A. Hashmi, Mr.
Izharul Haque, Senior residents, Junior residents and other non-teaching
staff of the department attended the programme.

National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions (NCMEI) Amenment Bill paased in Lok Sabha Friday

New Delhi | May 04, 2010

A bill to amend the National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions (NCMEI) Act to empower the statutory body to award minority status to universities was passed in the Lok Sabha today.

The NCMEI Amendment Bill, introduced last month, was passed by voice vote without discussion amid a din in the House.

The present NCMEI Act says that a minority educational institution means a college or institution (other than a university) established or maintained by a person or group of persons from among the minorities.

The amendment seeks to delete the words 'other than a university' from the definition of the minority institution.

At present, universities are given minority status by amendment of their respective Acts. But changing the definition of minority institutions under NCMEI Act will bring the universities under the ambit of NCMEI. This would help the NCMEI to award minority status to universities.

Last year, the government introduced the same bill which was referred to a Standing Committee. The committee had, however, given opinion against such amendment.

But the government overruled the recommendations and again introduced with the bill with the same provision seeking to change the definition of minority educational institution to cover universities under the NCMEI Act.
http://news. outlookindia. com/item. aspx?681020

Thursday, May 6, 2010

President of India has approved establishment of two AMU Centres at Murshidabad and Malappuram

ALIGARH May 5: Addressing a meeting of Chairmen of Departments of Studies
and Principals of Colleges, AMU Vice Chancellor Prof. P. K. Abdul Azis
informed that the President of India, in her capacity as the Visitor of
Aligarh Muslim University, has approved the University’s proposal regarding
establishment of its two Centres at Murshidabad and Malappuram in terms of
Sub-section (2) of Section 12 of the University Act.








Prof. Azis said that this is a moment of great jubilation and a historic
moment that the University has received the seal of approval of the Visitor
to set up special AMU Centre. While thanking the Central Government and the
Finance Minister Pranab Mukherji for his help and intervention in
establishing these centres Prof. Azis said that it was the happiest day of
his life. He said that the Union Government has already sanctioned Rs. 25
Crores for Murshidabad and 10 Crores for Malappuram centres and now the
Visitor’s approval has chartered a new course in the direction of education
particularly of minorities in India.

Speaking on the new initiative, AMU Vice Chancellor said that with a view to
make a beginning the University is planning to start five year integrated
BALLB and MBA programmes in these special centres from the next academic
session.

Prof. P. K. Abdul Azis also thanked the West Bengal, Kerala and Bihar state
governments for providing free land for the establishment of AMU’s Special
Centres. Prof. Azis pointed out that “the University will hold Academic
Council meeting and the meeting of the Court to get the necessary approval.
A small committee of Deans is already assigned the task for framing and
modification of rules and regulations”, he added.

Prof. Azis said that the University has conducted 260 general Selection
Committees and selected four hundred thirty one faculty members including
Principals during the last three years. He further stated that all the
vacancies will be filled up by the General Selection Committee in 2010.

AMU Vice Chancellor explained that CCTV were installed to protect the
property and lives of the University students and staff and as part of
modern security management and pointed out that none of the cameras is
disrupting the privacy of any individual. He said that the Proctor, a senior
faculty member, and his team of teachers will manage this technology driven
security system.

Prof. Azis has also urged the chairmen to start making use of the allocated
fund from the very beginning in a judicious manner and as per the rules. He
has drawn the attention of the chairmen and principals regarding merged
scheme funds available for 100% travel grant, publications, women
facilities, facilities for differently abled and asked them to make optimum
use for academic, research and infrastructure development.

Prof. Pervez Mustajab, Controller of Examinations has thanked the teachers
and urged them to help in the smooth conduct of forthcoming examinations and
admission tests also.

Prof. V. K. Abdul Jaleel, Registrar has observed that the moment of file has
substantially speeded up. The pension related matter were settled on the day
one itself. The circle of the movement was brought to three days and the
file are now zero pending in all normal cases. He also proposed a vote of
thank.

JNMC organized a free medical camp for the child asthma patients

ALIGARH May 5:* The Pulmonology Infectious Diseases Clinic, Jawaharlal
Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University organized a free medical
camp for the child asthma patients and they were informed of the various
health related issues and remedies to those problems. More than one hundred
children along with their parents visited the camp.

The Incharge of Pulmonology Infectious Diseases Clinic, Dr. Farzana K. Beig
said that the number of Asthma patients in India has increased upto 15-20
million and in a class of 30 students, two are affected by Asthma. Dr. Beig
said that the disease has been a major cause for absence of children from
their classes.

Dr. Beig said that the Asthma is essentially associated with environment
problems and it is most advisable for all to use light bed sheets instead of
carpets and avoid taking pets to bedroom. Further, people should use covered
dustbins to prevent cockroaches and avoid using wooden or coal fuel, strong
perfumes and body sprays. She said that relievers, inhalers and nebulizers
are easily available in the market to keep the asthma under control.

Dr. Farzana Beig provided important information about the issues relating to
Asthma to the children and teachers of the Iqra Public School at a lecture
organized on this occasion. Further, to educate common people and stress on
the need of public awakening about the Asthma, a rally was also organized
from Ward No. 16 of JNMC passing through Purani Chungi, Anoop Shahar Road
and Jamalpur localities of the city.

Dr. Shaad, Dr. Moiz, Dr. Adnan, Dr. Hina, Dr. Abhishek, Dr. Aleem, Dr.
Shilpa, Dr. Tanveer, Dr. Nishank and Dr. Leena also attended the camp.

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

AMU Registrar inaugurated the final Project cum Designers Footwear Exhibition

Aligarh May 4: AMU Registrar, Prof. V. K. Abdul Jaleel inaugurated the final Project cum Designers Footwear Exhibition organized by the final year students of Leather & Footwear Technology, University Polytechnic, Aligarh Muslim University. On this occasion Prof. Ekram Hussain, former Dean Faculty of Engineering & Technology, Prof. Hamid Ali, Acting Dean, faculty of Engineering and Technology, Prof. S. Iqbal Ali, Principal, University Polytechnic and Dr. S.N. Ganguly, Ex-Director CFTI, Agra were also present. The teachers of the section, Mr. Mohd. Sayeduzzaman, Mr. Pankaj Kr. Tyagi and Mr. Sujit Kr. Basu welcomed the dignitaries.






The Registrar, Prof. V. K. Abdul Jaleel was highly impressed by the work & creativity of the students at this level. Prof. Ekram Hussain appreciated the teachers for their continuous efforts for upgrading the quality of the section from its very inception. Prof. Hamid Ali assured the section all his support in the future. Prof. Iqbal Ali apprised of the activities and progress of the section.

The reverend guests and teachers of the section wished all the best to the passing out students for their success and a bright future.

Department of Tuberculosis and Chest Diseases organized a camp on World Asthma Day

Aligarh, May 4: The Department of Tuberculosis and Chest Diseases, J. N. Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University organized a camp on World Asthma Day.

More than 200 patients were registered and about 50 new cases of Asthma were diagnosed in the camp. Dr Rakesh Bhargava, Chairman, Department of TB and Chest Diseases said that the patients of asthma who do not take their treatment regularly are at the great risk of asthma attacks which often requires admission to hospital and can even be life threatening.

The most effective asthma treatment – inhalation therapy, is available in India at a price as low as Rs. 4 to Rs. 6 per day, which means that a year’s supply of medicine is less than the cost of 1 night’s stay at the hospital. However, Prof. (Dr.) Zuber Ahmad stated that the lack of awareness on asthma in India prevents it from being diagnosed in the early stages and of the 30 million asthmatics in the country, most are unaware, undiagnosed or are being sub-optimally treated for asthma.

Dr. DK Pandey said that Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder of the lungs in which there is inflammation (swelling) of the airways in our lungs. Dr Mohammad Shameem said that it has been found that adherence to asthma medication regime is very poor and tends to falter every after few months in both children and adults.

Commenting on the current scenario of asthma in India, Dr. Bhargava said, “Asthma is a chronic disease which requires long-term treatment. Many patients once they feel better stop treatment after some weeks. This can be dangerous since stopping treatment can lead to reactivation of the disease and precipitate an asthma attack. There are many reasons why patients stop medication. These include unnecessary concerns about side effects, myths about inhaler devices, social stigmas and sometimes cost of medication. There are also several psychological barriers which lead to inhibitions such as dissatisfaction with health care professionals, inappropriate expectations, anger about one’s condition, underestimation of severity of the condition and complacent attitude towards health It is important that we overcome these barriers and understand the importance of inhalation therapy if we have to control asthma.”

Dr. Zuber Ahmad said, “It is important to diagnose asthma at an early stage as it helps preserve the condition of the lungs. Asthma usually manifests itself through symptoms like coughing, tightness in the chest, and wheezing but it is important to consider asthma as a diagnosis particularly if these symptoms are recurrent and consult a doctor at the earliest. Using currently recommended treatment, asthma can be fully controlled and persons with asthma can lead a complete active life.”

To further support asthma patients and their families in understanding asthma, its symptoms, the triggers, and to remove the myths associated with the condition and its therapy, an extremely informative website – www.breathefree. com was also launched on this occasion. This website will ensure that a chronic condition like asthma is discussed and given importance not only on World Asthma Day but round the year.

All the faculty member of the department including Senior Residents, Junior Residents, Research Assistants, Senior Research Fellows actively participated in the camp.

Monday, May 3, 2010

Dr. Farzana K. Beig had interactive session with students of Iqra public school on World Asthma Day


ALIGARH, May 1: Dr. Farzana K. Beig, Department of Paedriatics and Incharge of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonology Clinic, JNMC, Aligarh Muslim University had an interactive session with students of Iqra public school on the occasion of World Asthma Day on 4th May 2010. She educated the students about asthma, its prevalence in Indian children, importance of early diagnosis, its predisposing factors, its prevention and control.

She also emphasized that asthma is one of the leading causes of school absentism. On the occasion students enquired about their queries regarding asthma. Various treatment modalities of asthma like inhalers, rotacaps, nebulization machines etc were demonstrated. Spirometry and Flowmetry were also demonstrated in some students. The message was to create awareness among the school children about asthma so that early treatment could be sought and handicap could be prevented. The team comprised Dr. Shaad (Sr.), Dr. Moiz, Dr. Adnan, Dr. Abhishek.

Student Upsurge in AMU's VM Hall

The Aligarh Muslim University administration seems to be fond of courting controversies. This time it is facing a student upsurge in one of the 18 residential Halls (a Hall consists of 4-6 hostels) of the students. This Hall is named as Viqarul Mulk, after one of the closest comrade of the founder Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, whose name was Mushtaq Hussain Khan (1841-1917), and was given an honorific title of Viqarul Mulk (lit. the pride of the nation). Viqarul Mulk was also in the forefront of the movement demanding the M.A.O. College to upgrade as a university in the early decades of the twentieth century. The movement then was mired with factionalism. In the Urdu biography of Viqarul Mulk published in 1925, the biographer says that what Viqarul Mulk hated most was the factionalism and corruption-irregula rities in the M.A.O. College , which is now AMU. Ironically, the Hall, named after him is presently in the throes of worst kind of factionalism and corruption.

The resident students of this Hall are angry with the Provost (who is the head administrator of the Hall, discharging his responsibilities in addition to teaching). One student has been forced out of the hostel, having been converted to the status of Non Resident, which is often taken as a stigma, because this forced exit is inflicted as a mark of punishment. Subsequently he has been suspended, even while admitted in the University health centre for treatment of small pox. According to the Hall administration, the student is alleged to have called a photo journalist to take photographs of the food being served in the Dining Hall, under the management of the students. Some weeks ago, the students had approached the Vice Chancellor, praying that the students should be allowed to manage the food affairs, as it was frequently running in deficit under the official (Hall) management. Quite often, an average deficit of Rs. 250 a month was being charged from the students in addition to what they paid every month. The VC allowed the students to manage it. The management of students did not incur any deficit while the menu reportedly had improved distinctly.

As the forced exit of the student invited greater protest mobilization of the students, the Provost lodged an FIR alleging that a group of students had molested his wife and snatched her golden chain from their personal/ private residence a bit away from the campus. The students vehemently deny such allegation by saying it is all concocted.

They say that this outrageous kind of allegation has been made against the students because a group of students submitted a signed memorandum to the Visitor (the President of the Indian Republic) demanding suspension of those functionaries who invaded the privacy of Prof. Siras and eventually he died an unnatural death (suicide or murder), hence, according to the students, the administration is being vindictive, revengeful and intimidative. There are also reports that some groups have only made use of the signatures obtained at some other time for some other purposes. In this way the whole episode is shrouded with mystery and confusion.

But one thing is quite clear that corruption in the Dining Halls affairs is a persistent issue, and quite often, bigger upsurges of students start from here. The VM Hall has particularly been simmering with student discontent since last several years under successive regimes. The AMU administration had to recover an amount of about Rs 43000 from one of the previous Provosts. This too was an issue of the Dining Hall finances. The incumbent Hall administration has been alleging the outgoing Hall administration that it swindled about Rs 3-4 lakhs, and an internal audit is in progress. In course of the audit, it has been detected that a refrigerator is missing while its purchase vouchers/ receipts are available. Students allege that this refrigerator has been taken away by one of the previous Wardens (Dining Hall In-charge). The students are demanding that an inquiry into the assets owned by those teachers should be conducted, who perennially love to take the charge of Warden (Dining Hall). There are only 30-35 such teachers, who keep serving as Warden Dining Hall, in one or the other residential Halls. Whenever students raise the voice of corruption in Dining Halls, they receive punishments of one or the other kind. This has been happening since colonial days, writes Prof. Mushirul Hasan, in one of his research essays on the AMU. In the late 1940s, a student of the Sir Syed Hall was rusticated by the then Vice Chancellor, Sir Ziauddin, for having raised such issues. This VC was inclined towards the Muslim League, and under written and oral instructions from the British Lt. Governor of U.P., he also used to suspend those students and teachers who were having nationalist (Congress) or Leftist inclinations.

A teacher, strictly on the condition of anonymity, confided that grievance redressal mechanism in AMU is horribly bad. Here, corruption is sought to be perpetuated with repression, whereas, in other parts of the world a corrupt regime is usually more populist.

So, there is a long history of corruption in the Dining Halls of AMU and protest against it is often sought to be dealt with by harshest possible administrative repressions.

The issue has got greater "political" saliency probably because of the fact that the incumbent Provost is supposed to be the camp follower of the Finance Officer, against whom (along with the VC and the Registrar) the Principal Accountant General (and the UGC also) has already issued indictment in huge financial corruption and irregularities in November 2009, and whose recruitment as Deputy Finance Officer is also alleged to have been done with gross irregularity and is being enquired by a two judge enquiry, which is expected to submit its report shortly.

The students claim (and many insiders have confirmed) that some "strangers" associated with the Finance Officer's "gang" frequently come to the Provosts' Offices and are seen taking away cash from there. Such "strangers" do the same things with those teachers who are Member In Charge (MIC) of various bodies like the Land and Garden Department. In short, the offices, which are supposed to be seats of corruption (via kickbacks in supply, construction etc), are sights of the visits of such "strangers", who treat such departments/ offices as ever-milking cow. One such "stranger" is an ex-research (non-bonafide) student, who has direct accessibility to the Registrar, Controller of Exams and Admissions and of course to the Finance Officer.Are these "strangers" goons hired for hafta wasooli?

What the students are most worried about and feel that when the top brass are already indicted by the Principal Accountant General, and these tainted high functionaries are protecting the Provost then how could they expect justice. They are particularly angry with the Union Minister of Human Resource Development, who, in their perception, is not doing enough to bring the corrupt functionaries to book. They have therefore turned towards the Visitor. Meanwhile, the student supposedly leading the agitation has been put under suspension even though he is admitted in the University Health Centre. The Vice Chancellor did visit the Hall to interact with the students, but nothing could calm down the students, even while their exams are in progress. The VC is extremely busy in preparing his arguments before the two judge inquiry, as the inquiry committee has clarified that the inquiry is into/ against the person of the VC and not into/ against the AMU.

So the ghost of Prof. Siras and the issue of corruption in AMU have got intermingled.

‘There Are No Homosexuals In AMU’ - AMU VC

‘There Are No Homosexuals In AMU’

AMU Vice-Chancellor PK Abdul Aziz tells VAIBHAV VATS that the Siras case was an ‘aberration’ and that the media was behind the entire episode

You had said earlier that “we could not be seen as lenient and tolerate free sex”. Does the university have the right to the probe private lives of individuals?
We did not invade anyone’s private life. Prof SR Siras was asking for help after some media people had entered his house. The proctor reached his house in response to that request. The university officials and the proctor will not go to anyone’s house unless there is a request. So there is no issue — all the rest is mischievous propaganda.

What justified the use of emergency powers to suspend Professor Siras?
It is a prima facie case. Under the university rules, powers are vested with the Vice-Chancellor and he is supposed to take action.

Instead of taking action against those who conducted the sting, why did you suspend Prof Siras?
Suspension is an internal matter. If there is a case against anyone, suspension is the first level of action. There are several employees of the university, who have been suspended for a long time, as inquiry concludes its proceedings. Suspension should not be seen as punishment.

Isn’t it draconian for a university to have a local intelligence unit on campus?
It is an unfair comment. The proctor’s team is assisted by teachers who guide the 250 watch-and-ward staff as all of them are not trained for the job. It is a huge campus, and the unit helps in maintaining law and order.

In that case, how could three people enter and secretly film inside the house of Siras, a senior faculty member?
We have not prevented the media from entering the campus. We do not monitor them — they can go and talk to any faculty member or student for any purpose. The real culprits are the media — they are behind the entire episode.

In his FIR, Siras said a member of the local intelligence unit had assisted the two mediapersons in the sting.
It was never brought to my attention. The university is only concerned with the code of conduct.

What have you done to address issues of homophobia on campus? Isn’t the university supposed to be a liberal, inclusive space?
There is no question of homophobia, as there is no homosexuality on campus. What happened with Prof Siras was an aberration.

Are you saying there are no homosexuals in AMU?
That is what I believe. Every institution has its tradition and values — AMU is a sacred space. The case of Prof Siras case was an exception.

What is the university’s stand on homosexuality?
Would you accept if someone in your family were a homosexual? No one is using that word now. The governing council has to formulate a stance anyway, it is not my prerogative.

The letter informing Prof Siras that his suspension had been revoked was dated April 5. Why did it reach him on April 8, a day after his death?
That was an administrative delay. It should have been avoided. It’s all immaterial now.

From Tehelka Magazine, Vol 7, Issue 16, Dated April 24, 2010

AMU in the India Today News Magazine

http://indiatoday. intoday.in/ site/Story/ 94234/Education/ Institutional+ meltdown. html

Institutional meltdown
Farzand Ahmed
April 23, 2010
The suicide by Shrinivas Ramchanderan Siras has stripped away the veneer of a 90-year-old institution which is now in the news more for its electronic surveillance than its intellectual environment. Even as its Vice-Chancellor (V-C) P.K. Abdul Azis faces serious charges of corruption which are being investigated by a panel of two retired judges, four senior Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) officials-Proctor Zubair Khan, Deputy Proctor Farid Khan, Public Relations Officer Rahat Abrar and the V-C's Media Advisor NAK Durrani-are facing charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code for criminal trespassing, physical assault and forcible disturbance of privacy rights. With its 400 security guards, eleven local intelligence units and 57 high-powered CCTV cameras monitoring the movement of its 1,100 teachers and 38,000 students, the university has completed the transition to becoming an enclave of paranoia.
AMU
AMU's imposing gate may be one of the few good things left about it.
AMU is no stranger to trouble. In the last 15 years, it has been closed down indefinitely six times. Three murders have taken place inside and outside the campus since September 2007. Violence reached a new level when on the night of September 16, 2007, students burnt down the V-C's Lodge, the proctor's office and the staff club to protest the murder of fellow students.
In the same month, women students indulged in violence on the basis of rumours that a student had been raped. The university was closed and the students' union was scrapped. In another incident in October 2009, students launched an agitation demanding the ouster of the V-C. The provocation was the killing of B.Sc student Shahnawaz Alam near the Aligarh railway station. The administration cracked down to quell the student agitation, closing the university and asking the students to vacate hostels.
Rahat
"AMU took action against Siras because according to its statutes what he had been indulging in was gross misconduct. Teachers should remember they are role models."
Rahat Abrar, PRO
But even for a central university in steady decline, this may well be the lowest point. Teachers don't have individual chambers for their academic work and there are no restrooms for the women faculty but the university was able to spend Rs 10 crore on installing CCTVs. In most departments, M.Phil classes had been stopped as students were forced to go in for Ph.Ds instead.
Likewise, in the Modern Indian Languages Department, which teaches seven regional languages, there are hardly any students as they are not encouraged to pursue different languages. Students are not allowed to raise any questions. Even meetings held on the campus to exchange views are now subject to police monitoring.
Prof
File pic: Professor Siras in front of AMU
As if having a network of intelligence- local intelligence units and CCTVs everywhere-was not enough, the authorities have stepped up moral policing of students and teachers, of the kind responsible for Siras' suicide. In a resolution, the Aligarh Muslim University Teachers' Association (AMUTA) demanded a judicial probe into the Siras episode, with the chief judicial magistrate ordering that an FIR be lodged.
Abrar, one of the officials named in the FIR, however, maintains that the teachers have to be role models. Sheikh Mastan, chairman of Modern Indian Languages, points out that though the letter revoking Siras' suspension was issued on April 5 it reached the department on April 8, a day after Siras was found dead.
According to Tariq Islam, who teaches philosophy, over the years AMU has turned into an island that lives in the dark ages. It used to produce historians, sportspersons, scientists, writers, artistes and film personalities but now people talk only about goons and guns. And the Siras case preceded by the V-C's decision to have 57 CCTVs installed on campus indicates that a 'madrassa mentality' is being imposed.
Former AMUTA president Naeem Ahmad Khan says under the illiberal environment on campus, everyone seems to have stopped thinking about academic excellence. He says in the past AMU used to groom leaders but since the campus became a kind of barracks everyone lives in a state of fear.

What's wrong with AMU?

Point


Counterpoint
Ever since P.K. Abdul Azis joined as V-C, he has turned the AMU campus into a 'police state'. It began with violence. The V-C's Lodge was set ablaze. There were reports that criminal elements frequented the campus and even stayed in hostels.
Azis is the first V-C to face corruption charges and the first against whom the President has ordered an inquiry. A fact-finding committee is already at work to probe the charges.
Why is the administration not investing in improving the infrastructure of the campus? An expert committee is already preparing a master plan for the restoration of the heritage buildings in the AMU campus and upgrading the existing infrastructure.
Is the plan to have an outside campus a conspiracy to destroy AMU? It was a well thought decision of the University court,the executive council and the academic council to establish five AMU centres at Bhopal, Kishanganj, Murshidabad, Mallappuram and Pune. AMU has already submitted to the Human Resource Development Ministry a proposal for the establishment of five centres at a total investment of Rs 2,000 crore, with an estimated cost of Rs 400 crore per centre.

But the V-C doesn't agree. All these ugly developments struck the campus when Azis was vigorously trying to get his agenda for 'academic rejuvenation' implemented. He invited the teaching and research community to recapture the spirit of inquiry that was once the hallmark of AMU, hoping that the university would unlock its academic potential with fresh optimism, discipline and diligence. The attainable goals included the submission of at least 500 Ph.D theses by the end of each year, the submission of research projects by at least 500 teachers to various national and international funding agencies with a target of Rs 200 crore for conducting new research in areas of national and regional importance, and the publication of at least one research paper annually by every teacher in the university in a peer-reviewed journal of international repute. Eager to change the face of AMU and the perception of the world about the university, Azis signed MoUs with several leading universities, among them John Hopkins and New York universities.
Jamshed
"CCTVs are aimed at creating an atmosphere of suspicion and fear among students and teachers. Their voices are suppressed so they can't demand better facilities."
Jamshed Siddiqui, Secretary, AMUTA
Even critics like Islam agree that the decline started in the 1990s when academics surrendered before the authorities. By 1992-93, goondaism on the campus in the name of student unions had crossed all limits. Taking advantage of this, successive V-Cs stopped all academic activities; even permission to hold seminars was denied.
When Azis took over in June 2007, the turbulence was at its height and he felt an iron fist was the only answer. Abrar says the decision to install electronic surveillance was taken after the burning down of the V-C's Lodge. "The Executive Council decided to revamp security on the campus and found that cameras were already installed in Delhi University and iit Delhi to keep a check on sexual harassment. The CCTVs are only aimed at campus roads, halls and hostel gates."
Vice-Chancellor
Vice-Chancellor Abdul Azis
Between 1995 and 2000, when Mahmood-ur-Rehman was the V-C, four closures took place. IAS officer Naseem Ahmad had to resign just before completing his tenure. As National Convener of the Aligarh Movement Foundation, Omar Peerzada says AMU, the grand institution of Muslim dreams, has been lying wounded for decades. What's worse, he points out, it's a "self-inflicted wound".
In the past too, hostels have been attacked by a group carrying AK-47s, rifles and kattas; teachers have been assaulted by students; Registrar Faizam Mustafa's house was attacked and his family providentially escaped. Then there was the murder of Manzar Safi within the hostel room and so on.
But AMU's tragedy lies in its inception. Parcham Party of India Chief Salim Peerzada, an AMU alumnus, traces the history to the 1920 Act through which it was upgraded as a university having a distinct minority character with the teaching of theology as a must. Since the Congress was against this, in 1951 the teaching of theology was made optional.
Elizabeth
"By turning the campus into a police state, authorities have caged the soul of AMU. How can students achieve excellence without academic freedom and free exchange of views?"
Elizabeth Mariam, Student
In 1965, the Centre through an ordinance annulled the past act and took over all powers. This led to a movement with Muslims being made to think that Congress had destroyed the last sign of Muslim nationalism. Indira Gandhi promised to restore AMU's minority character and the act in 1972 took away its autonomy. But in 1981 through an amendment, the government restored its position "to promote the educational and cultural advancement of Muslims of India".
At the heart of the problem is the 1981 Act whose Section 19(3) gives emergency powers to the V-C. According to a study by researcher Jasim Mohammad, one V-C used this emergency power 2,755 times while V-C Hamid Ansari used it 1,823 times and Mehmood-ur-Rahman used it 3,906 times. The V-C's emergency powers had made the administration autocratic and created a huge chasm with the students-teachers community. But until AMU is given a drastic shakedown, the police raj ends and academic freedom is restored, no emergency powers will be enough to implement Azis's academic agenda.

Farzand Ahmed, India Today, April 23, 2010