Delhi University right wing teachers back JNU counterparts

Right wing teachers' body of Delhi University on Thursday came out in support of the JNU teachers who have been opposing the JNU teacher association's stand of providing unconditional support to the students booked for sedition charges. The National Democratic Teachers' Front, associated with the BJP also hinted of creating a joint forum of teachers of JNU and Delhi university against anti-establishment activities on campus.

National Democratic Teachers Front, associated with the BJP submitted a memorandum to the office of the President of India demanding a fair probe into any kind of anti national activity that took place on JNU campus. The teachers also demanded investigation into the anti establishment organisations operating inside JNU campus.

Delhi University Teachers' Association (DUTA) which is dominated by the affiliates of the left and Congress has extended its support to the JNU teachers' association. However, the right wing teachers to disassociate themselves from the Delhi University teachers' official position. "We do not stand with DUTA on the issue. DUTA did not bring the matter in the staff association before taking an official position on the issue," said Professor AK Bhagi, president of NDTF.

Bhagi also said that NDTF has extended support to the JNU teachers who have opposed the JNUTAs unconditional support to the students. "We want these teachers of JNU to come forward on a joint forum with us," he said.

A section of teachers in JNU, who do not associate themselves with the left, had earlier threatened to split from JNUTA and form a separate body of teachers. "We want the law to take its own course. Those guilty should be booked," said Professor Amita Singh of JNU.