In Latest Of Bengal Universities Vs Governor, Bose Removes Jadavpur's Interim Vice-Chancellor Ahead Of Convocation

The recent controversy surrounding the Jadavpur university involves the removal of interim vice-chancellor Buddhadeb Sau by West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose.

This decision comes just a day before the scheduled annual convocation, which the university decided to proceed with, despite objections from Governor Bose, who serves as the ex-officio chancellor of state-run universities as reported by Hindustan Times.

Governor Bose had initially appointed Professor Sau as the acting vice-chancellor in August.

The removal was announced through a letter stating the withdrawal of authorisation for Professor Sau to exercise the powers and perform the duties of the vice-chancellor's office. The letter emphasised the immediate effect of this decision.

Additionally, Governor Bose warned that any expenses incurred for the 'unauthorised' convocation would be deducted from the salary of the vice-chancellor.

The university faced challenges in organising the convocation as the chancellor refused to allow the authorities to hold the court meeting necessary for final approval according to university rules.

Despite receiving permission from the state higher education department, tensions escalated, leading to the removal of the interim vice-chancellor.

In response to the situation, Professor Sau expressed his lack of knowledge about the content of the letter and claimed that the university had not violated any regulations.

He highlighted the potential impact on approximately 2,500 students whose academic achievements and degrees may be at stake if the convocation does not proceed as scheduled.

Governor Bose, seeking legal opinions, is contemplating recovering public funds spent on the convocation from the vice-chancellor’s salary and others deemed responsible.

An inquiry committee is expected to be established to investigate allegations against the vice-chancellor accusing him of defying Supreme Court orders.

The university's turmoil underscores broader challenges in governance and decision-making processes within the academic institution.