Tripura University, a central university and the highest educational institution in the state, has recently found itself mired in controversies and corruption scandals, drawing widespread criticism and media attention. Allegations of nepotism, financial irregularities, and corrupt practices have been levied against senior officials, including Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ganga Prasad Prasain and Registrar Dipak Sharma. These developments have raised serious concerns about the integrity and administration of the prestigious institution.
Arrest of University Employee for Job Scam
In the latest scandal to hit the university is the arrest of Sukanta Chowdhury, a Daily Rated Worker (DRW) employed at Tripura University by Amtali police on Monday for allegedly cheating people by promising them jobs in exchange for money. According to police sources, Chowdhury reportedly collected substantial sums from multiple individuals, assuring them of employment in Lower Division Clerk (LDC) and Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS) positions, for which examinations were recently conducted.
Chowdhury’s arrest came after several complaints were lodged against Chowdhury by job aspirants who had paid him money but received no job offers in return. Police investigations revealed that Chowdhury had exploited his position within the university to carry out the fraudulent scheme, further tarnishing the institution’s image. Authorities are now probing if more university officials were involved in the racket.
This particular episode is reported to have political angle too with some local level ruling party leaders also being involved in influencing recruitment process for their own candidates and lift their share of the cake in the turmoil.
Allegations of Nepotism and Favouritism
The arrest of Chowdhury is only the latest in a series of controversies that have plagued the university. Allegations of nepotism in recruitment processes have been a significant cause of concern. One of the most controversial incidents was the appointment of Lalit Prasain, son of the current Vice-Chancellor Prof. G.P. Prasain, as Assistant Engineer (Civil). The appointment reportedly violated established norms and raised questions about transparency and fairness in the recruitment process. Critics argue that such practices indicate a deep-rooted culture of favoritism at the university.
Proxy Candidates Scandal
In another shocking incident, proxy candidates from outside Tripura were allegedly caught appearing for the MTS and LDC exams on behalf of actual applicants. This scandal came to light when several proxy candidates were arrested, exposing a possible nexus between a section of university staff and external agents facilitating such malpractices. Sources suggest that this incident might just be the tip of the iceberg, with a broader investigation needed to uncover the full extent of exam-related corruption.
Registrar’s Role Under Scrutiny
The role of Registrar Dipak Sharma has also come under scrutiny amid allegations that a section of university staff and officials were directly or indirectly facilitating corrupt practices. Insiders claim that certain appointments and administrative decisions made by the Registrar’s office have raised eyebrows, prompting calls for a comprehensive investigation into the administrative and financial dealings of the university.
History of Corruption: The Prof. V.L. Dharurkar Episode
This is not the first time that Tripura University has been embroiled in a corruption scandal. In September 2019, then Vice-Chancellor Prof. V.L. Dharurkar resigned after being accused of financial irregularities and corruption. An internal inquiry had revealed significant discrepancies in financial transactions and contract allocations under his tenure. His resignation was seen as an attempt to avoid a larger public scandal, but the incident left a lasting impact on the university’s reputation.
Growing Calls for Investigation
The recent incidents have prompted students, faculty members, and civil society organizations to demand a thorough and impartial investigation into the functioning of Tripura University. Several student organizations have staged protests, calling for the resignation of the Vice-Chancellor and Registrar until the allegations are independently probed.
Speaking on the matter a prominent lawyer in Agartala, remarked, “The series of incidents at Tripura University is a matter of grave concern. The involvement of senior officials in such acts, if proven, would be a betrayal of public trust. An independent probe is essential to restore faith in the institution.”
Impact on University’s Reputation
The string of scandals has severely dented the reputation of Tripura University, which was once considered a cornerstone of higher education in the state. Students and parents have expressed concern about the impact of these controversies on the institution’s credibility and the value of its degrees. The university’s alumni association has also issued a statement condemning the incidents and demanding accountability from the administration.
Conclusion: A Hub of Corruption?
The mounting allegations and arrests suggest that Tripura University has indeed become a hub of corruption and nepotism, contradicting its mission of promoting higher education and ethical standards. As investigations proceed, all eyes are now on the university’s administration and the Ministry of Education, which is being urged to intervene decisively. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether justice is served and if the institution can reclaim its tarnished image.
