Calcutta University in Hot Water Over Autonomy and Holiday Dispute

A dispute has arisen at Calcutta University as Vice Chancellor Shanta Dutta declares the institution's autonomy over holiday decisions, opposing the state government's Vishwakarma Puja holiday declaration. Criticized for scheduling exams on a student group's foundation day, Dutta insists on prioritizing academic functioning over external pressures.

Calcutta University finds itself embroiled in controversy as officiating Vice Chancellor Shanta Dutta firmly upholds the institution's autonomy against the West Bengal government's declaration of Vishwakarma Puja as a holiday for campuses and affiliated colleges.

Dutta, who previously faced backlash from the ruling Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad for scheduling exams on the student organization's foundation day, maintained that the decision regarding holidays lay within the university's jurisdiction. CU, she stated, had not included Vishwakarma Puja in its academic calendar, thus authorizing its campuses to remain operational.

Despite criticism from TMCP state president Trinankur Bhattacharya accusing her of clashing with the education department unnecessarily, Dutta asserted that maintaining academic schedule integrity took precedence. Bhattacharya, in response, argued that Dutta's actions disrupt student sentiment and question her tenure's legitimacy.

(With inputs from agencies.)