KSA alleges recruitment scam in Manipur University, demands CBI probe

The Kangleipak Students’ Association (KSA) has alleged large-scale irregularities in the ongoing recruitment process for non-teaching posts at Manipur University and has demanded a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation.
In a statement issued by its Secretary General Babulu Huirongbam, the association accused the Vice Chancellor of Manipur University of conducting the recruitment process in connivance with certain faculty members, terming it a “well-planned scam.”
The association claimed that the Cadre Recruitment Rules (CRR) under which the recruitment is being carried out have not been approved by the Visitor of the university, the President of India. Citing a letter dated May 25, 2023 from the Ministry of Education to the Registrar of Manipur University, the student body stated that recruitment under unapproved CRR cannot be undertaken.
The association further referred to a communication issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC) on October 18, 2021 to Registrars of all Central Universities, stating that recruitment rules not approved by the Ministry of Education cannot be implemented. It alleged that although the Executive Council of Manipur University approved certain CRR in its meeting held on December 30, 2024, the university authorities have not implemented the newly approved rules in the ongoing recruitment under Advertisement No. 2/2025.
According to the association, discrepancies are visible in the advertised pay levels and post classifications. It alleged that certain posts such as Assistant and Stenographer were advertised with pay levels that do not correspond with the newly approved CRR, raising suspicion that the rules are being selectively ignored to favour specific individuals.
The association also questioned why posts were advertised under their old nomenclature without incorporating rationalised designations and revised pay levels reportedly approved by the Executive Council. It argued that if both the CRR approved on December 30, 2024 and the rules issued by the University Grants Commission in September 2022 are not being followed, the university must clarify under which rules the present recruitment is being conducted.
The Kangleipak Students’ Association alleged that proceeding with recruitment without prior approval of the CRR by the Visitor could jeopardise aspiring candidates. It questioned the legality of granting post facto approval after completion of the recruitment process and asked what would happen if the Visitor were to reject the rules after results are declared.
The association further alleged violation of provisions under the Manipur University Act, 2005, particularly Statute 41(6), which mandates submission of approved rules to the Visitor within two weeks of Executive Council approval. It claimed that failure to do so renders the rules invalid.
The association alleged that the Vice Chancellor, whose tenure is reportedly nearing completion on May 7, 2026, is attempting to push through the recruitment process for vested interests. It further claimed that there are allegations within the university that agents are being used to collect large sums of money, ranging from Rs 25 lakh to Rs 30 lakh per post.
The KSA stated that it would submit formal complaints to the Central Bureau of Investigation, the Central Vigilance Commission, the University Grants Commission and the Ministry of Education seeking an independent inquiry.
The association also alleged irregularities in the screening process for teaching faculty recruitment and maintained that the ongoing recruitment exercise lacks transparency and adherence to established norms. It warned that it would intensify its agitation if corrective measures are not taken and accountability is not fixed.