TISSTA Condemns TISS for Misrepresentation Amid Contract Crisis

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences Teachers Association (TISSTA) has criticized TISS administration for alleged misrepresentation regarding the non-renewal of contracts for 55 teaching and 60 non-teaching staff. TISS cited financial constraints and project-based appointments for the terminations, while TISSTA claims these were UGC-mandated positions.

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences Teachers Association (TISSTA) has sharply rebuked the administration of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) for what it calls a serious misrepresentation of the current contract renewal crisis affecting 55 teaching and 60 non-teaching staff members.

In a statement dated July 10, TISS alleged that some faculty and students were exploiting the institute's transition from being governed by the House of Tatas to central government management, spreading misinformation and discord. However, TISSTA argues that these employees were UGC-mandated staff and not project-specific hires.

TISSTA claims that despite assurances from the University Grants Commission (UGC) about continued funding, termination notices were still issued. They accuse TISS leadership of neglecting critical disciplines like Women's Studies and ignoring calls for an all-faculty meeting to discuss the crisis.