A recent advertisement by Visva-Bharati offering ₹150 per class to a guest teacher has drawn criticism, with many pointing out that such “devaluation” of teachers not only speaks poorly of the Central university, but is also becoming a common practice across West Bengal.
In an advertisement published on June 6, Visva-Bharati invited applications for the post of a guest teacher in weaving, offering a maximum of ₹12,000 per month for a minimum of 80 classes, which works out to ₹150 per class.
Critics were quick to point out that even unskilled labourers in West Bengal were entitled to ₹350 a day. “We strongly condemn the advertisement released by Visva-Bharati, which is a clear violation of labour laws. This act not only undermines the rights of the employees but also reflects a larger conspiracy to privatise Visva-Bharati,” said Sudipta Bhattacharyya, president of Visva-Bharati University Faculty Association.
