Is the Flight Controversy Affecting the Selection of Kerala's Vice Chancellors?
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Synopsis
The appointment of Vice Chancellors for two prominent universities in Kerala faces controversy as suspicions arise regarding the influence of a senior official who shared a flight with Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia. This incident raises important questions about the integrity of the selection process, which is critical for the credibility of higher education in the state.
Key Takeaways
- Controversy over flight sharing raises questions about selection integrity.
- Importance of transparency in higher education appointments.
- Concerns about potential undue influence on decision-makers.
- Composition of the selection panel includes representatives from both the state and the Governor.
- Timely appointment of Vice Chancellors is imperative.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 9 (NationPress) The appointment process for the Vice Chancellors of Kerala Digital University and A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University is facing scrutiny following allegations that a senior state official was on the same flight as retired Supreme Court judge Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia, who leads the Search Committees.
The Save University Campaign Committee (SUCC) Chairman, R.S. Sasikumar, claimed that this interaction could potentially influence Justice Dhulia or send signals to candidates deemed unfavorable by the state government.
Justice Dhulia's executive-class ticket was booked by the state, and the SUCC Chairman described the simultaneous booking of a senior official on the same flight as “suspicious.”
Interviews with Vice Chancellor candidates commenced on Wednesday at a hotel in Thiruvananthapuram and will span four days.
Around sixty candidates are being interviewed, including interim VCs, Pro VCs, registrars, and principals from the Technical Education Department.
The selection panel consists of senior professors chosen by both the Governor and the state government.
The SUCC raised concerns that conducting the process without a UGC representative might breach regulations, highlighting the necessity for transparency and fairness.
This flight incident emerges amid a Supreme Court directive that appointed Justice Dhulia as the chairperson of the Search Committees following a legal deadlock between the state government and Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar over VC appointments.
The court intervened after the state government petitioned, citing non-cooperation from the Governor.
According to the apex court's order, the committee will consist of four members—two appointed by the Governor and two by the state—with Justice Dhulia presiding, and the new Vice Chancellors must be appointed within a month.
While Justice Dhulia's appointment aims to resolve the deadlock, the flight controversy adds extra scrutiny to the entire process.
Observers emphasize that ensuring fairness in interviews is crucial for upholding the credibility of higher education appointments in Kerala.
Point of View
The current controversy highlights the need for transparency and integrity in the selection processes for educational leaders. The involvement of a senior state official raises valid concerns about undue influence, and it is critical that all stakeholders ensure a fair and unbiased selection process to maintain public trust and uphold the standards of higher education in Kerala.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the controversy surrounding the Vice Chancellors' selection in Kerala?
The controversy stems from allegations that a senior state official traveled on the same flight as Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia, who is overseeing the selection process, raising concerns about potential influence.
What are the implications of this flight incident?
The incident may call into question the impartiality of the selection process, potentially undermining the credibility of higher education appointments in Kerala.
Who is involved in the selection process?
The selection panel includes senior professors nominated by both the Governor and the state government, as well as Justice Dhulia presiding over the committee.
