In open letter, 181 academics seek legal action against Rahul Gandhi for spreading falsehoods on Vice Chancellor appointments

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi (File photo/PTI)

At least 181 academics, including former and current vice-chancellors, have signed an open letter addressed to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of spreading falsehoods and defaming the Office of the Vice Chancellors regarding the appointment process for university heads. They have sought legal action against Gandhi.

According to academics, Gandhi alleged that vice-chancellors are chosen based on connections rather than qualifications, implying a lack of transparency in the selection process. However, signatories vehemently refuted these claims, stating the process of selecting VCs as rigorous, transparent, and grounded in principles of meritocracy, scholarly distinction, and integrity.

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Jawaharlal Nehru University vice chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit, Delhi University VC Yogesh Singh, and AICTE Chairman T G Sitharam are among those who have signed the letter.

Academics claimed that choosing university heads is all about picking the right people with good academic and administrative skills, who can foster and improve the universities. Even though they didn’t directly address Rahul Gandhi’s claims, he has previously suggested that ties to groups like the RSS influence academic appointments.

Signatories to the letter include Vinay Pathak, VC of CSJM University in Kanpur; Bhagwati Prakash Sharma, Chancellor of Pacific University in Udaipur; N C Gautam, former VC of Mahatma Gandhi Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya in Chitrakoot, Alok Chakkarval, VC of Guru Ghasidas Central University in Bilaspur, Vinay Kapoor and former VC of BR Ambedkar National Law University in Sonipat.

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The signatories asserted that universities in India have experienced massive advancements, evident in their rise in global rankings, notable accreditations, new research breakthroughs, curriculum updates bridging the gap between industry and academia, and improved job placement opportunities. . They believe these successes prove their commitment to being really good at teaching and making a positive difference in society.

“The array of academic disciplines and professional experiences represented amongst us stands as evidence of the unbiased and inclusive nature of the selection procedure.” It reflects their dedication to cultivating an atmosphere that values and promotes diversity, encourages independent thinking, and supports scholastic achievement, they said.

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“Rahul Gandhi has resorted to falsehood and has defamed the Office of the Vice Chancellors at large with the intent to derive political mileage out of it. It is, therefore, earnestly prayed that appropriate action be taken against him forthwith in accordance with law,” they added in the letter.

Additionally, the academics stated in their letter that as guardians of knowledge and overseers of academic institutions, they are firmly dedicated to upholding the highest standards of governance integrity, ethical conduct, and institutional integrity.

They urged everyone to carefully differentiate between what is true and what is not, to avoid spreading baseless rumors. They called for discussions that are well-informed, constructive, and aligned with their common objective of establishing a dynamic and inclusive educational atmosphere.