Shortlisted aspirants for Assistant Professor positions at the University of Kashmir Sunday expressed frustration varsity abruptly postponed scheduled interviews for five subjects at the last minute, leaving them high and dry.
The aspirants, who had been preparing for interviews set to begin on November 11, 2024, urged the university to reschedule and conduct the interviews as planned.
Several candidates told Rising Kashmir that the university announced the interview dates well in advance, only to cancel them without explanation.
“It was shocking to see the university cancel the interviews at the eleventh hour, leaving us in uncertainty. The postponement notice was simply uploaded on the university’s website, with no clear reason provided,” said one aspirant.
The notice on the website cited “administrative issues” and informed candidates that interviews scheduled from November 11 to 14 for Assistant Professor positions, advertised under Notice No. 13 of 2023 (dated December 19, 2023), had been postponed until further notice.
“We regret the inconvenience,” the notice added.
Another aspirant, part of a group shortlisted since 2018, shared the disappointment felt by many, stating, “We’ve been waiting for years.
This postponement has not only discouraged us but also raised serious concerns about the university’s commitment to fair and timely recruitment.”
The candidates pointed out that this is not the first time the process has been delayed.
Previous advertisements for these positions had been withdrawn twice, causing significant stress among those hoping to secure a position.
“This cycle of advertising, postponement, and withdrawal is not only delaying our employment chances but also undermining our academic and professional qualifications. Many of us have crossed the age limit of 40 years, dedicating years to higher education, only to face ongoing uncertainty about our futures,” they added.
The aspirants also addressed rumors circulating on social media suggesting that some candidates had called on the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister to halt the interviews, citing concerns of favoritism due to the Vice-Chancellor’s tenure nearing its end.
The shortlisted aspirants dismissed these claims as baseless, clarifying that those making these statements were likely applicants who did not meet the UGC criteria followed by the university.
The delay, they believe, was likely influenced by the Model Code of Conduct due to the recent parliamentary and assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir.
“We urge the university to address the issue promptly and proceed with the interview process to avoid further delays in their recruitment,” they added
