The tussle between the State government and the Governor over the choice of Vice-Chancellors has had a detrimental bearing on seven universities across Karnataka. They have been functioning without heads for anywhere between three to 22 months.
Officials pointed out that several key decisions were not being taken by the acting Vice-Chancellors. “Acting Vice-Chancellors refrain from carrying out work for the development of the university as they feel their tenure is too short. They are just seeing to the day-to-day activities,” said a former Vice-Chancellor.
Several of these varsities have had more than one acting Vice-Chancellor. Bangalore University, for instance, has had three acting V-Cs since February 6 this year after B. Thimme Gowda completed his tenure.
Higher Education Minister Basavaraj Rayaraddi said it was “unfortunate” that the Governor and the Chancellor of universities Vajubhai R. Vala had sent back the files pertaining to appointment of V-Cs for Bangalore and Mysuru universities. “We had shortlisted two names from the three shortlisted by the search committee. Neither of them have any allegations of corruption or inefficiency,” he said.
Mr. Rayaraddi said the Governor had not mentioned the reason for sending back the file. “I appeal to the Governor to reconsider his decision. Meanwhile, I will also discuss the matter with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.” The government had recommended the name of Sangamesh Patil from Karnatak University to be V-C of Bangalore University. C.P. Siddashrama from the Kuvempu Institute of Kannada Studies was shortlisted by the government for the post of the V-C of Mysuru University.
According to Mr. Rayaraddi, search committees to shortlist a panel of names for the post of V-C of Karnataka Folklore University and Tumakuru University have been formed. “Both these committees need to finalise the names,” he said.
The government appoints a search committee comprising nominees of the University Grants Commission, government, Governor, a member chosen by the university’s Syndicate and other education experts. The committee meets and reviews applications received before submitting three names to the government. The government then picks one name and sends it to the Governor. The appointment has to be made by the Chancellor in concurrence with the government.