Mysuru: University of Mysore (UoM) Syndicate member and entrepreneur T R Chandrashekar has alleged irregularities involving high-value tenders, online education agreements and financial transactions at the university and has sought an independent, high-level inquiry.
Chandrashekar has submitted a representation to Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot, Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, Higher Education Minister Basavaraj Raya Reddy and Chief Secretary, seeking an investigation into what he described as a Rs 150-crore tender scam and other irregularities.
The allegations concern various activities and transactions at the University of Mysore over the past three years. The representation raises questions about procurement, examination-related purchases, online education, university properties and the functioning of certain colleges.
Questions over online education agreement
One of the major issues raised by Chandrashekar concerns the UoM–University18 Trust Extension and Amendment Agreement dated July 24, 2024.
He has questioned the 35:65 fee-sharing arrangement under the agreement, alleging that it is contrary to regulations of the University Grants Commission’s Distance Education Bureau (UGC-DEB) and provisions of the Karnataka State Universities Act, 2000.
Chandrashekar has sought scrutiny of the agreement and the process through which it was approved.
Allegations concerning high-value tenders
The representation also raises questions about several high-value tenders and contracts relating to the Engineering, Information and Communication Division (ICD), Examination section, School of Architecture and projects under Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) and Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA).
As an example, Chandrashekar has referred to a tender for IT infrastructure and equipment worth Rs 4.97 crore.
He has questioned the procedure followed in initiating and processing the tender and sought clarification on whether the required approvals were obtained from the competent authorities and the Syndicate.
The allegations require examination by the competent authorities, and the representation itself does not establish that a scam or wrongdoing occurred.
Objection to Jayalakshmi Vilas Palace lease
Chandrashekar has also raised objections to a proposal concerning the long-term lease of Jayalakshmi Vilas Palace, a heritage property belonging to the University of Mysore.
He questioned the proposal in view of the substantial expenditure reportedly incurred by the university on renovation of the heritage property.
The representation seeks greater scrutiny of the proposal and the financial and administrative implications of leasing the property for an extended period.
Questions over colleges and academic programmes
The Syndicate member has also raised issues concerning the functioning and academic autonomy of Maharaja’s College and Yuvaraja’s College.
These include changes relating to postgraduate courses, admission procedures and the introduction of fully financed programmes.
Chandrashekar has sought examination of the decision-making processes surrounding these academic changes and whether they comply with the applicable university rules and regulations.
Selection committees and VC promotion questioned
The representation further raises questions concerning the appointment of selection committees and the promotion of UoM Vice-Chancellor N K Lokanath during his tenure.
Chandrashekar has requested an independent inquiry into the selection proceedings, the composition of the committees, eligibility criteria, approvals and the regulations applicable to the appointments and promotion.
He said the purpose of his representation was not to target any individual but to ensure that the university’s finances and academic interests were protected.
“My intention is not to personally target any individual. My objective is to protect public funds, students’ interests and the academic reputation of the UoM. An independent inquiry should establish the facts and ensure accountability wherever required,” he said.
The representation has sought an independent and high-level inquiry into the various allegations so that the facts surrounding the tenders, contracts, agreements, financial transactions and administrative decisions can be established.