West Bengal education minister opposes appointment: The Education Minister of West Bengal, Bratya Basu, disapproves of the appointment of interim vice-chancellors to state universities. He believes that Raj Bhavan’s “stopgap measures” have led to a condition of disorder in the universities. The minister’s remarks are in response to West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose’s recent appointment of mathematics professor Buddhadeb Sau as interim vice chancellor of Jadavpur University.
The minister stated on Monday, in a subtle jab at the governor, that the files pertaining to the appointment of Vice Chancellors at state-run and state-aided universities remain “unattended” in the governor’s office.
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“The recommendations of higher education department search committees are not being evaluated. Unattended are the files related to the appointments of VCs. The game of passing continues. “Raj Bhavan’s actions have created a chaotic situation in universities,” he said.
When asked about the appointment of Sau as acting VC of the university, the minister stated, “We do not support interim VCs. These are ad hoc procedures. We desire permanent vice chancellors at various universities as a long-term measure.”
Jadavpur University has been at the centre of a storm of criticism following the death of a first-year undergraduate student who was allegedly raped and sexually tormented prior to his death.
Basu expressed confidence that the “good intentions” of students will assist in putting an end to hazing. “We want to ensure that studies are not disturbed,” he explained.
On August 9, a 17-year-old freshman died after falling from a balcony on the second floor of the primary boys’ dormitory. His family claimed he was subjected to bullying and sexual harassment. Thirteen individuals, including former and current JU students, were detained in relation to the student’s death.
