Concerns among academics over vaccine drive ‘politicisation’

As the central government of India took over the sourcing and supplying of COVID-19 vaccines, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has asked all universities and colleges across the country to put up posters thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the free jabs, drawing criticism from a section of teachers who termed it ‘politicisation’ of the vaccination drive, reports the Hindustan Times.

In an email sent to universities and colleges on Sunday 20 June, the commission said: “The Government of India is starting free vaccination for 18 years and above age group from tomorrow, ie 21st June 2021. In this regard, universities and colleges are requested to kindly display these hoardings/banners in their institutions.” The approved design for banners, shared by the UGC in the email, carried the message, “Thank you PM Modi” both in English and Hindi. Several colleges in Delhi University (DU) confirmed receiving the email from the commission.

A section of teachers said it was a purely “political move”. Rajesh Jha, an associate professor at DU and former member of the university’s executive council, said: “At a time when the educational institutions have been struggling managing their finances, there is no money to renew our journals and get our laboratory equipment, the UGC is asking colleges to put up posters. What is the need for it? Universities and colleges are not meant for propagating the political agenda of the government.” Despite several attempts, UGC Secretary Rajnish Jain did not answer calls. He also did not respond to text messages.
Full report on The Hindustan Times site