Manipur University VC asserts he has resumed office

Just after few weeks of withdrawing the impasse over Manipur University row, AP Pandey on Tuesday asserted that he has resumed charge as the Vice-Chancellor of the University, but due to prevailing situation has opened a temporary office at his official residence.

Speaking with the media, Pandey said he had "not accepted the extended period of leave issued by Registrar in-charge Prof Sh Dorendrajit Singh."

The VC has claimed that as per the rules and regulations a vice-chancellor cannot be granted leave for more than 30 days and accordingly he had joined the office failing which disciplinary action would have been taken up against him.

Dorendrajit on Monday had issued an order which stated that "until the completion of the inquiry proceedings against him (Pandey) and until necessary follow up action is taken on the inquiry report by the competent authority" his leave will be extended.

The order also stated that all "interim orders" issued by Pandey on September 1 and 2 shall be considered "null and void."

Pandey was earlier granted leave on August 2 for a period of 30 days and had rejoined on September 1.

On his return from leave, on Saturday, Pandey issued an official statement to "ban" Manipur University Teacher's Association (MUTA) and Manipur University Students' Association (MUSA) citing Manipur University Act 2005 which says that there is no provisions for existence of employees bodies under the Act.

Pandey accused the teachers of drawing salaries for the last thee months despite taking part in the agitation and for failing to create conducive environment in the university.

Pandey said he is ready to face any inquiry against him but the committee should be an independent one and not partial.

Featured Image: The Indian Express