One of the most reputed state universities, JU was graded A with a rating of 3.7 out of 4 by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) in 2008.

Now, a few teachers under the banner of All Bengal University Teachers Association (ABUTA) have started a signature campaign at the university. “With the central status, the university will be freed of political interference and more funds will be available to the university,” said Tarun Naskar, the general secretary of ABUTA, adding it will also mean more participation for the teachers in international conferences and increase in their salaries.

The teachers claim the retirement age would be increased to 65 from 60 if central status is granted to the university. The signature campaign comes ahead of Union HRD minister Kapil Sibal’s visit to the state on January 8. Teachers said they will press their demand before the minister.