Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court has upheld the transfer of Jagannath Olekar, Associate Professor and Field Officer at the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bengaluru, to Vishweswaraya Canal Farm (VC Farm) in Mandya. The professor had challenged the transfer issued on July 8, 2024, claiming it was invalid due to the establishment of a new agricultural university at the farm and alleged need for central government approval.
Court’s observations
A division bench of Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice CM Joshi rejected Olekar’s claims, noting that the transfer did not amount to a demotion. The court clarified that VC Farm was still part of UAS Bengaluru at the time of the transfer and that the professor was moved to a higher-grade position. The bench also emphasised that university guidelines allow faculty to serve at campuses outside Bengaluru, and central government approval was not required.
Implications of the order
The ruling reinforces that transfers under university service rules are valid if they comply with guidelines, even when campuses undergo administrative changes. Jagannath Olekar is required to report for duty at VC Farm in Mandya, like other faculty members, ensuring continuity of academic and research work.
Conclusion
The High Court’s decision sets a precedent for transfers within university campuses in Karnataka, highlighting that administrative restructuring does not nullify service rules.