Chief Minister Urges Swift Action: Demand Rises to Appoint Vice Chancellor Before Elections Amid Corruption Scandal… Pressure Mounts for Acting VC’s Removal Amid Vigilance Enquiry
Urgent Calls to Expedite Vigilance Enquiry as Pressure Grows for Acting VC's Removal
Demand Mounts toAppoint Vice Chancellor Before Elections Amid Corruption Scandal
Amidst a mounting corruption scandal at Agriculture University Palampur, demands have intensified for the prompt appointment of a Vice Chancellor ahead of upcoming elections. The post of Vice Chancellor has remained vacant for over seven months, marking an unprecedented situation in the university’s history.
Dr. D.K. Vats has been serving as the acting Vice Chancellor since July 22, 2023. However, his tenure has been overshadowed by allegations of misappropriation of university funds exceeding 16 crore rupees, allegedly in collusion with other university officials. These allegations have prompted a vigorous investigation by the Vigilance Department, with all pertinent documents currently in their custody.
Despite the ongoing probe and mounting evidence, the government has yet to remove Dr. Vats from his position, drawing criticism for potentially hindering the investigation process. Calls for his immediate removal have grown louder, with stakeholders emphasizing the need for swift action to expedite the investigation and ensure accountability.
The prolonged vacancy in the Vice Chancellor position has also hampered the university’s development initiatives, with various projects and administrative tasks suffering due to the leadership vacuum. Students and staff have expressed frustration, calling for the appointment of a regular Vice Chancellor to restore stability and public trust.
Moreover, there have been widespread demands for stringent measures to be taken against those found guilty of corruption, in accordance with established rules and regulations. Stakeholders have urged the government to prioritize transparency and accountability in handling the situation, emphasizing the importance of upholding the integrity of academic institutions.
As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders remain hopeful for a swift resolution that upholds the principles of justice and integrity. However, until decisive action is taken to address the vacancy of the Vice Chancellor position and hold those responsible for corruption accountable, uncertainty is likely to persist at Agriculture University Palampur. The looming elections have only heightened the urgency for the appointment of a Vice Chancellor to lead the institution forward and ensure stability during this tumultuous period.
