Academicians Accuse Rahul Gandhi of Spreading “Falsehood” About University Appointments

New Delhi - A group of 181 academicians, including vice chancellors and former VCs, have accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of spreading “falsehood” about the appointment process for university heads. They have sought lawful action against him.

In an open letter, the academicians refuted Gandhi’s claims that vice chancellors are appointed solely based on their affiliation with certain organisations, rather than merit. They asserted that the selection process is characterized by a stringent, transparent, and rigorous procedure grounded in meritocracy, scholarly distinction, and integrity.

Among the signatories of the letter are Jawaharlal University Vice Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit, Delhi University VC Yogesh Singh, and AICTE Chairman T G Sitharam. They insisted that the selection has been completely based on academic and administrative prowess, with a vision to advance universities.

While they did not quote Gandhi’s specific claims, the Congress leader has previously alleged that affiliations with the Hindutva organisation RSS often guide appointments to academia.

The signatories also include Vinay Pathak, VC, CSJM University, Kanpur, Bhagwati Prakash Sharma, Chancellor, Pacific University, Udaipur, and N C Gautam, former VC, Mahatma Gandhi Gramodaya Vishvavidyalaya, Chitrakoot.

They highlighted the significant transition of universities in India, as evident in their ascent in global rankings, prominent accreditations, world-class research and innovations, curriculum facelift narrowing the industry-academia gap, and higher placement prospects. This, they asserted, reaffirms their commitment to academic quality and societal relevance.

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

They accused Rahul Gandhi of resorting to falsehood and defaming the Office of the Vice Chancellors at large with the intent to derive political mileage out of it. They urged for appropriate action to be taken against him in accordance with law.

As guardians of knowledge and administrators of academia, they expressed their unwavering commitment to maintaining the utmost levels of governance integrity, ethical behaviour, and institutional integrity. They called for everyone involved to exercise discernment in distinguishing fact from fiction, abstain from spreading unfounded rumours, and engage in well-informed, constructive dialogue that supports their shared goal of creating a dynamic and inclusive educational environment.