Leading Vice Chancellors and academicians have penned an open letter rebuffing Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s comments on the selection process of University heads and demanding action for what they deem as ‘resorting to falsehood’. The letter, signed by 181 individuals nationwide, sharply dismisses Gandhi’s assertions regarding the appointment of Vice Chancellors.
process of selecting Vice Chancellors
In their letter, they assert that the process of selecting Vice Chancellors follows a stringent, transparent, and rigorous procedure grounded in the principles of meritocracy, scholarly distinction, and integrity. This process, they claim, is evidence of their commitment to fostering diversity, independent thinking, and scholastic achievement.
The academicians highlight the significant advancements witnessed by universities in India, including improved global rankings, notable accreditations, innovative research, and enhanced curriculum bridging the gap between academia and industry. They vehemently deny Gandhi’s insinuation that affiliations dictate appointments, instead emphasizing the selection based on academic and administrative capabilities.
Signatories to the letter include distinguished figures such as Jawaharlal Nehru University Vice Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit, Delhi University VC Yogesh Singh, and AICTE Chairman T G Sitharam, among others. Notably, they stress their dedication to upholding governance integrity, ethical behavior, and institutional integrity.
Call for action against Rahul Gandhi
Furthermore, the academics urge individuals to discern between fact and fiction, refrain from spreading unfounded rumors, and engage in informed and constructive dialogue to nurture a dynamic and inclusive educational environment.
The letter concludes with a call for appropriate action against Rahul Gandhi for what they perceive as a deliberate attempt to tarnish the reputation of Vice Chancellors and derive political mileage from falsehoods.
