UMASA Announces Phased Protest Over Long-Pending Grievances at University of Mumbai

The University of Mumbai Academic Staff Association (UMASA) has announced a phased agitation starting Monday, highlighting what it describes as years of unresolved issues affecting both academic functioning and staff welfare. The association has submitted a detailed seven-point charter of demands to the university’s vice-chancellor, urging immediate reform and corrective measures.

UMASA has cited a host of concerns, including long-pending service matters, numerous vacant positions, and the lack of coordination between admissions and examination departments, which faculty members say has repeatedly disrupted academic calendars and increased administrative stress. The association maintains that these persistent lapses have not only burdened teachers but also affected the academic experience of thousands of students across affiliated colleges.

As a symbolic first step, teachers across Mumbai University’s network of institutions will report to duty wearing black ribbons for three days, signalling their dissatisfaction while ensuring that students do not face immediate disruption.

If the administration fails to respond, UMASA has planned a second phase beginning November 20, during which members will intensify their demonstrations. This will be followed by a more visible form of resistance — a “chain dharna” protest starting November 24, where faculty members will stage continuous group sit-ins to demand accountability from the university administration.

UMASA leaders assert that the intention behind the protest is not confrontation but the restoration of academic efficiency and staff dignity. They argue that unresolved administrative processes, delayed promotions, and lack of clarity in service rules have made it difficult for educators to deliver their best.

The association has urged the university to engage in dialogue and take urgent steps to address structural inefficiencies. As the first phase of agitation begins, all eyes are now on how the University of Mumbai’s leadership responds, and whether collaborative action can avert escalating tensions on campus.