Vikash Sharma

Bhubaneswar: A high-level probe conducted by additional secretary of Higher Education Department, Prashant Kumar Das has detected massive irregularities and corruption in Ravenshaw University in Cuttack.

Das, who undertook a probe as per the instructions of the chancellor, by visiting the premier educational institution on August 21, stumbled upon irregularities in the purchase of computers by the varsity during 2014-15 academic session.

"There have been several violations in the prescribed guidelines of the University Grants Commission (UGC) in appointment of contractual lecturers, purchase of electronic equipment including computers in 2014-15 and 2015-16 sessions," said Das.

Without revealing much about the findings, Das informed that the probe was conducted into the allegations of financial irregularities to the tune of Rs 2.87 crore.

The opening balance, cash in hand and bank accounts were thoroughly checked besides the audit report of 2014-15 and 2015-16 financial year.

As per the preliminary investigation, contractual lecturers were appointed by the varsity officials without issuing advertisements for the posts.

The findings also reveal that the former vice-chancellor also took Rs 40,000 per month  as taxi fare.

"I have collected some documents and a final report will be submitted to the Chancellor as well as Odisha government for necessary action," Das added.

Also Read: UGC directs universities to ban junk food on campuses

Not only Ravenshaw, Berhampur University had also come under the scanner over alleged irregularities.

Some students of Berhampur University had brought allegations of irregularities in appointment of staff and lecturers, evaluation of answer sheets, university finances and infrastructure development. Following such reports, the chancellor had asked Odisha Higher Education Department to conduct an inqury into such allegations and submit report within 60 days.

scrollToTop