IT News
Imphal, May 6:
The Federal Students’ Organisation, Kangleipak (FESOK), has brought to light the troubling state of affairs at Dhanamanjuri University (DMU), which was established in 2017. According to a press release issued by FESOK, DMU was included in the defaulting universities list in January of this year, prompting further investigation into the reasons behind this alarming development.
“Upon inquiry, it was discovered that DMU is facing severe administrative and staffing challenges. Shockingly, the university’s only regular employee was the Vice Chancellor, who retired on April 27, 2024. Additionally, key positions such as Registrar, Assistant Registrar, Controller of Examination, Deputy Controller of Examination, Finance Officer, faculties, and non-teaching staff remain vacant. Despite being recognized under section 2 (f), DMU has not been included under section 12 (b), resulting in a lack of funding from the University Grants Commission (UGC). The UGC had previously issued instructions to address these issues by December 2023, but the government failed to follow up, leading to DMU’s inclusion in the defaulters list,” the statement added.
Furthermore, FESOK said that although 88 Assistant Professors have been selected through interviews, their recruitment process has been stalled, reportedly due to interference from Ningthoujam Geoffrey, Secretary to the Chief Minister and Special Secretary (Cabinet/DP/Planning). Under the High Court’s directive to announce the results of the selected candidates, the result was announced through a notification signed by the VC, however offer forms for the selected candidates have yet to be issued.
FESOK expressed grave concerns over the infringement of the university’s autonomy and highlighted the failure of Nivedita Lairenlakppam, the Registrar, to initiate the recruitment process for a new Vice Chancellor.
In light of these troubling revelations, FESOK has issued an appeal urging the authorities to take immediate corrective actions. Failure to address these issues promptly may result in DMU being blacklisted, further jeopardizing the future of students and the integrity of the institution.