Rajasthan Governor and Chancellor of Universities Haribhau Bagde on Thursday, 28 May ordered the immediate removal of Prof. (Dr.) Devswaroop — the first Vice-Chancellor of Baba Amte Divyang University, Jaipur, and acting Vice-Chancellor of Vishwakarma Skill University — following findings of serious irregularities in appointments made during his earlier tenure at Rajasthan University. The action was taken in consultation with the state government.

What the Official Order Said

The official Raj Bhavan social media handle, Lok Bhavan Rajasthan, confirmed the development, stating: 'Governor Shri Haribhau Bagde has issued orders to immediately remove Vice-Chancellor Prof. Devswaroop from his position with immediate effect in the case of irregularities in appointments made arbitrarily, bypassing university rules and provisions.' The post added that 'these orders have been issued in consultation with the state government.'

What the Inquiry Found

Governor Bagde had earlier constituted a three-member high-level inquiry committee headed by noted educationist and Kota University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Bhagwati Prasad Saraswat, after a complaint filed by an academic alleged serious irregularities and discrimination in the selection process. The committee examined recruitment documents, interview assessment sheets, and selection records from Dr. Devswaroop's tenure at Rajasthan University. It also reviewed compliance with University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations and reservation policies. The committee's report, submitted to Raj Bhavan, reportedly found evidence of procedural violations — including disregard for UGC norms — allegedly aimed at favouring certain candidates.

Key Allegations Against the VC

According to officials, Dr. Devswaroop allegedly committed serious irregularities in recruitment processes by bypassing established university procedures and UGC guidelines. The inquiry report also raised concerns over compliance with reservation policies, a particularly sensitive area in public university appointments. Critics argue that such violations, if confirmed, undermine the integrity of academic hiring across the state's university system.

What Happens Next

With the removal taking effect immediately, Raj Bhavan is expected to initiate the process for a replacement appointment at both Baba Amte Divyang University and Vishwakarma Skill University. The action signals that the Governor's office, acting as Chancellor of Rajasthan's universities, is willing to invoke its constitutional powers to enforce academic governance standards. Further disciplinary proceedings against Dr. Devswaroop cannot be ruled out, depending on the full findings of the inquiry committee's report.