Row over resignation of Electronic Media HoD

BANGALORE: Students of Bangalore University’s (BU) Department of Electronic Media on Friday staged a protest by blocking Vice- Chancellor’s car following the resignation of prof N S Ashok Kumar, founder and head of the department.He is set to take over the responsibility of Registrar (Evaluation) at Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences.First and third semester students alleged that there were efforts to merge Mass Communication and Electronic Media departments in view of Prof Kumar’s exit. As a result, Mass Communication faculties were roped in to conduct classes for Electronic Media subjects.“This has been on for a month. We have documented proof for the way our classes were conducted,” said a third semester student, on condition of anonymity.Another student pointed out that the course fee for Electronic Media was Ts 26,620, whereas Mass Communication course cost much more.A major point of contention was the appointment of Narasimha Murthy, a reader, as member of the faculty.In a letter written to vice-chancellor Dr N Prabhu Dev, third semester students accused Murthy of “ill-mannered behaviour and unnecessary interference in classes”.“We want faculty with expertise in the field they teach. How can a Mass Communication faculty member teach Electronic Media students? Even guest lectures have been cancelled,” said another student.According to students, guest faculty (usually well-placed alumni of the department) were called to conduct lectures during prof Kumar’s period.When VC Dr N Prabhu Dev attempted an exit, the agitated students laid in front of his car and even tried to force open the doors. He then addressed the students and assured them that their interests would be taken care of.“If you really think prof Ashok Kumar is the right person, give it to me in writing as a signed memorandum,” he said. Following this, students submitted a signed petition to recall prof Kumar and to remove Narasimha Murthy.Professor N S Ashok Kumar was unavailable for comments.