Students at Gautam Buddh University in Noida have raised serious allegations about fee payment irregularities. They claim the university portal initially showed their transactions as complete, but later altered or removed these entries. This forced many students to pay their fees a second time, creating financial strain and confusion.
Years of Unresolved Complaints
According to student accounts, this problem has persisted for several years. Complaints about the fee discrepancies reportedly date back to 2019. Students say the university administration failed to resolve the issue despite repeated concerns over transparency.
Lok Ayukt Intervention
The matter recently reached the Lok Ayukt, which has taken decisive action. The anti-corruption ombudsman directed Vice-Chancellor Rana Pratap and Registrar Dr Vishwas Tripathi to submit a detailed report. Both officials must also appear for an inquiry scheduled for January 9.
University's Response and Internal Audit
A university official confirmed to TOI that the institution has initiated an internal audit in response to the complaints. "In reference to the discrepancies and complaints received, the university has formed two committees at the institutional level," the official stated.
The official explained the committees' mandates:
- One committee will scrutinize fees submitted by students
- The other committee will examine the university's accounts and match them with balance sheets
Registrar's Removal Amid Controversy
Amid the growing controversy, the university removed Dr Vishwas Tripathi from the registrar position on December 29. University authorities stated Tripathi was relieved because his tenure had exceeded the permitted duration.
However, Tripathi contested this explanation. He alleged his removal was directly linked to the ongoing investigation. "As soon as I received the letter from the Lok Ayukt, I informed the accounts officer, the vice-chancellor and other administrative officials to prepare original documents for presentation before the Lok Ayukt," Tripathi told TOI.
He continued, "However, I did not receive any cooperation. On December 29, I was removed from my post without any valid reason."
University Denies Wrongdoing
University officials have denied any wrongdoing in the matter. Dr Vineet Kumar, the public relations officer of GBU, provided the university's official stance.
"The University has taken note of the complaints regarding financial irregularities related to fees and initiated action in accordance," Kumar stated. "In a move to ensure transparency and accountability, the University also requested the State government to conduct a comprehensive audit of its finances for the past 5 years."
Regarding the registrar's removal, Kumar explained, "As the tenure of the former registrar, Dr Vishwas Tripathi, concluded, he was relieved accordingly. Prof Chander Kumar Singh has since been entrusted with the additional responsibilities of registrar."
Broader Transparency Concerns
Beyond the fee discrepancies, students have flagged additional concerns about transparency at the university. They specifically questioned the process for appointing a new exam controller, suggesting broader governance issues might need examination.
The university's decision to request a five-year state government audit indicates recognition of the seriousness of these allegations. Students await the January 9 inquiry with hopes for resolution and accountability.
