• Source:JND
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A collective of 181 current and former Vice Chancellors along with the heads of regulatory authorities have issued an open letter asking for ‘appropriate action’ against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. They have accused the Congress leader of spreading falsehoods regarding the appointment process of the university heads and diminishing the image of the VC’s office. The dignitaries have also filed an online petition with the Election Commission of India. 

Academic leaders from across the country accused Rahul Gandhi of making ‘baseless allegations’ regarding the VC selection process to gain political advantage. 

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“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 open letter said. 

The open letter was reportedly signed by incumbent VCs from prestigious institutions including Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi,  Delhi University, 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. 

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Responding to Gandhi's "tweet and open sources" alleging that VC appointments are made solely based on affiliation with some organization rather than 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 concluded by asking authorities to take appropriate legal action against Rahul Gandhi for his purported actions. “Because 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,” the letter read.