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A collective of 181 current and former Vice Chancellors (VCs) along with heads of regulatory authorities such as the AICTE have issued an open letter urging "appropriate action" against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.
They have accused him of allegedly spreading falsehoods regarding the appointment process of university heads and tarnishing the reputation of the VC's office.
The signatories have also initiated an online petition addressed to the Election Commission of India.
Among the signatories are incumbent VCs from prestigious institutions including Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi, MS University, Baroda, Central University of Haryana, Mahendragarh, North East Hill University, Shillong, the president of the Association of Indian Universities, the chairperson of AICTE, former chairperson of UGC, and the director of NCERT, among others.
Denying the "baseless allegations" regarding the VC selection process, the academic leaders assert that such claims are made to gain political advantage.
They emphasize the importance of discerning fact from fiction and encourage informed dialogue to foster a supportive educational environment.
The open letter said: “We strongly urge all individuals involved to exercise discernment in distinguishing fact from fiction, to abstain from spreading unfounded rumours, and to participate in dialogue that is well-informed, constructive, and supportive of our shared goal of creating a dynamic and inclusive educational environment.”
The letter highlights that VC selections adhere to a rigorous and transparent procedure based on principles of meritocracy, scholarly distinction, and integrity, aiming to propel universities forward.
Responding to “tweet and open sources” of Gandhi, alleging that appointment of VC is made solely based on affiliation with some organisation rather than on merit and qualification, the open letter stated, “With utmost conviction, the Vice Chancellors of prestigious Universities nationwide and Academic Leaders, address and refute the baseless allegations that have recently been circulated concerning the selection process.”
The letter concludes by urging authorities to take appropriate legal action against Rahul Gandhi for his purported actions.
“In view of the fact that Shri Rahul Gandhi has resorted to falsehood and has defamed the Office of the Vice Chancellors at large with the intent to derive the political mileage out of it. It is therefore, earnestly prayed that appropriate action be taken against him forthwith in accordance with law.”
Source: 181 VCs, academic leaders call for action against Rahul Gandhi