Aligarh। The Registrar of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Prof. Asim Zafar, has strongly reprimanded the Honorary Secretary of the AMU Teachers’ Association (AMUTA), Mr. Ashraf Mateen, along with members of its Executive Committee, for adopting and circulating a resolution containing what the administration described as intemperate, derogatory and disrespectful language against the Vice-Chancellor.
In an official communication dated 27 December 2025 (D No. 72, Reg. Sectt./LD/25), the Registrar stated that the University Administration had taken serious note of a resolution adopted by the AMUTA Executive Committee during its meeting held on 25 December 2025. The resolution pertained to the tragic firing incident on the AMU campus on 24 December 2025, which resulted in the death of a teacher, and was later circulated on social media under the signature of the Association’s Honorary Secretary.
While affirming that the University respects the teachers’ constitutional right to express concerns and engage in constructive criticism on matters of institutional importance, the Registrar strongly objected to the use of expressions such as “incompetence and insensitivity” and “shameless defence” in reference to the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor.
The letter stated that such language undermines the dignity of the Vice-Chancellor’s office, tarnishes the image of the University, disrupts the atmosphere of mutual respect and collegiality, and lowers the standards of academic discourse. The Registrar observed that this conduct is inconsistent with the propriety, restraint, and responsibility expected from members of the teaching community, particularly office bearers of the Teachers’ Association.
The Registrar clarified that while scrutiny and criticism of official actions are legitimate when expressed in dignified and reasoned language, a clear distinction must be maintained between criticism of an official response and personal vilification of an office-holder. Circulating a resolution containing such language, especially when the incident is under active police investigation, could lead to institutional disharmony, prejudice ongoing processes, and erode the culture of respectful academic engagement, the letter noted.
Although the Secretary is responsible for the formal circulation of the resolution, the Registrar emphasized that responsibility for its content, language, and tenor lies collectively with all members of the Executive Committee who deliberated upon, approved, and adopted it. Collective decision-making, the letter added, does not absolve collective accountability.
In view of the above, the Registrar has called upon the Secretary and all Executive Committee members to show cause within seven days as to why appropriate disciplinary action should not be initiated against them for adopting and circulating the resolution. The Association’s office bearers have also been warned to refrain from making such intemperate, derogatory, or unsubstantiated allegations in future communications, failing which stern disciplinary action will be taken in accordance with University rules.
Copies of the letter have been endorsed to all members of the AMUTA Executive Committee and to the Personal Secretary of the Vice-Chancellor for information.
