A group of 181 academicians, including vice chancellors and former VCs, have come out with a statement censure Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's purported false claims regarding the appointment procedures for university heads. The group has demanded action against him.
In a joint statement, these academicians have dismissed Gandhi's claims that vice chancellors are appointed without merit but based purely on connections. "VCs appointment process is robust, transparent, and based on meritocracy, excellence in academics, and integrity," they had declared. The process of appointment of VCs is without bias, with the appointment being based strictly on academic and administrative capabilities, the signatories have declared.
Among those who have signed the statement are prominent academicians such as Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit of Jawaharlal Nehru University, Yogesh Singh of Delhi University, and T.G. Sitharam, Chairman of AICTE. They have declared that appointments are based on academic and administrative capabilities with a vision for the development of the universities.
Although Gandhi has not made specific claims, he has earlier insinuated that affiliations with the RSS determine the appointment of academics. However, the signatories insist that appointments are free from bias and strictly based on academic and administrative capabilities.
The signatories include Vinay Pathak of CSJM University, Kanpur; Bhagwati Prakash Sharma, Chancellor of Pacific University, Udaipur; N.C. Gautam, former VC of Mahatma Gandhi Gramodaya Vishvavidyalaya, Chitrakoot; Alok Chakkarval of Guru Ghasidas Central University, Bilaspur; and Vinay Kapoor, former VC of BR Ambedkar National Law University, Sonipat.
They pointed out that significant progress is seen in global rankings of Indian universities and in research and innovation, with their commitment to the principle of academic excellence and social relevance. They pointed out that the diversity in terms of experience and background of the members of the committee attests to fairness in the process.
Relying on the accusations of spreading falsehoods and trampling on the reputation of VCs for political ends, the academics have demanded proper legal action against him.
For them, it is their duty to be guardians of knowledge and stewards of academia, holding on to the highest standards of governance, ethics, and institutional integrity. They invite all to exercise discretion, avoid spreading baseless rumors, and participate in enlightened and constructive debate in furthering the lively, inclusive academic environment.
