Opposition parties in Puducherry write to President Murmu seeking removal of Pondicherry University Vice-Chancellor
The Hindu
Parties urge President to remove PU V-C over misappropriation charges. CPI, CPI (M) and VCK seek President's intervention to withdraw extension granted to Prof. Singh in light of Madras HC's direction to CBI to probe case. Parties highlight PM's zero tolerance stance on corruption & urge President to set example for younger generation.
The Communist Party of India (CPI), Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI (M)] and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) have sought the intervention of President Droudapi Murmu in removing Gurmeet Singh as the Vice-Chancellor (V-C) of Pondicherry University (PU) in the wake of the recent direction given by Madras High Court to the Central Bureau of Investigation to probe misappropriation of funds charges against PU authorities.
In a letter to the visiting President, the parties said Prof. Singh was holding the post of Vice-Chancellor on extension basis for the last ten months.
“The Prime Minister has stated that the Universities are temples of knowledge. The Prime Minister has also stated his intention of showing zero tolerance towards corruption. Corruption in higher educational institutions not only affects the reputation of the institution but also leaves a scar in the minds of younger generation. In the wake of HC direction, the President should withdraw pleasure of grant of extension,” the letter said.
Bringing to the notice of the President the details of the case, the parties said the court has given the direction after recording the submission of the CBI that they had found “incriminating materials,” in the case. In view of the order given by the court, students are demanding removal of the V-C for setting high standards and probity in public life.
“Mr. Singh is adamantly sticking to the chair defying decorum and decency. We kindly request you to withdraw pleasure of grant of extension in the interest of inculcating the culture of zero tolerance to corruption in the minds of young India,” the letter said.
The letter was signed by CPI secretary A. M Saleem, CPI (M) secretary R. Rajangam and VCK secretary Deva Pozhilan.