Jadavpur University Vice-Chancellor Controversy: Leadership in Limbo

Jadavpur University officiating vice-chancellor Bhaskar Gupta has been removed by West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose, three days before his retirement. The decision has sparked criticism from state officials and academic bodies, highlighting issues of governance and stability at the institution.

In a sudden move, Jadavpur University's officiating vice-chancellor, Bhaskar Gupta, was removed from his position by West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose, effective immediately. The decision, announced just days before Gupta's scheduled retirement, has drawn sharp criticism from state Education Minister Bratya Basu and academic groups.

Education Minister Basu condemned the removal as humiliating, pointing out that Gupta was not officially notified. The uproar underscores tensions over university governance, especially since similar officiating VCs at other universities remain in their roles despite expired terms.

Basu expressed concerns about the academic and administrative future of the institution, which has lacked a permanent vice-chancellor for over a year. The removal has been denounced as contributing to a constitutional crisis at the university, raising questions about higher education governance in the state.

(With inputs from agencies.)