The process for appointing the vice-chancellor of Arunachal Pradesh University in Pasighat has come under scrutiny due to potential statutory violations in the constitution of the search-cum-selection committee. This development has raised concerns about the legitimacy of the selection process, which has already commenced with personal interactions of candidates conducted on June 17.
A panel of four candidates has been shortlisted, reportedly including two candidates from Rajiv Gandhi University and one each from the NERIST and the NEHU. However, there are apprehensions that at least two indigenous academicians from Rajiv Gandhi University were overlooked despite meeting the eligibility requirements.
At the centre of the controversy is the inclusion of the education secretary/commissioner as a member of the search-cum-selection committee. It has been alleged that this official, being an ex-officio member of both the university court and the executive council, was statutorily disqualified from serving on the committee under the Arunachal Pradesh University Act, 2012.
Questions have also been raised over the appointment of the chief secretary as the chairman of the committee, with concerns that the presence of senior state administrative officials could compromise the independence envisaged under the statutory framework governing the appointment of a vice-chancellor. The conduct of the selection process has also come under the scanner due to the rescheduling of the candidates’ interaction and the alleged absence of the University Grants Commission nominee.
Allegations have been made that the original nominee of the executive council may have been replaced without authority, which could have implications for the legality of the committee’s constitution. It has been contended that the alleged statutory irregularities strike at the very constitution of the search-cum-selection committee, rendering the entire selection process legally vulnerable. Failing corrective action, the matter is likely to be taken before the court.
The controversy surrounding the selection process has raised concerns about the potential consequences of proceeding with the appointment of the vice-chancellor without addressing the alleged statutory irregularities.
