A damning inquiry report has cast a long shadow over Haryana Agricultural University (HAU) in Hisar, alleging widespread irregularities, arbitrary decisions, and repressive practices within the institution. Submitted by former divisional commissioner Ashok Garg, the report has become the focal point of a growing agitation by university stakeholders who are demanding immediate government action.
Key Findings and Allegations of the Garg Report
The report, termed independent and fact-based by stakeholders, outlines several serious allegations. It highlights the case of Dr. Divya Phogat, whose proposed academic transfer to Mexico was reportedly blocked despite being in her professional interest. Instead, a 56-year-old scientist was nominated without the necessary recommendations from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) or the concerned department.
Further, the inquiry found that Dr. Phogat's application for a training programme in Bangladesh, scheduled for March 1 to March 10, 2023, was effectively sabotaged. The Departmental Advisory Committee meeting was deliberately held on March 1, and its proceedings were issued only on March 7, denying her the opportunity.
The report also points to alleged favoritism and financial misconduct. It accuses the Vice Chancellor of favoring family interests and causing a loss of several million rupees to the public exchequer through appointments made in violation of rules. In the case of scientist Chhavi Sirohi's Annual Confidential Report (ACR), the inquiry observed a "serious abuse of authority" that caused grave harm to her career.
Repressive Practices and Student Agitation
A particularly contentious issue raised in the report is the use of force against students. The lathi-charge on students was described as "completely unnecessary and unjustified," stating the situation did not warrant such action. Despite this finding, First Information Reports (FIRs) were lodged against students, which stakeholders say continue to threaten their academic and professional futures.
Retired professors Arjun Singh Rana and Harshdeep Gill, along with HAU student leader Manoj Siwach, addressed the media outside the university's Gate No. 4 on Monday. They presented a list of urgent demands, including:
- Immediate implementation of the Garg inquiry findings.
- Withdrawal of what they term 'false' cases registered against students.
- Strict action against officials found guilty by the report.
- Removal of the Vice Chancellor from office until departmental and criminal proceedings are complete.
Recommendations and Mounting Pressure
The Garg report includes several recommendations to overhaul university governance and ensure transparency. Key suggestions are:
- Introduction of an online transfer system.
- Establishment of a centralised online grievance redressal portal at the Vice Chancellor's level.
- Implementation of a file-tracking system already used in other Haryana universities.
- Finalization of promotion cases within two months of submission.
Expressing deep concern, the stakeholders noted that even a month after the report's submission, the government has failed to act on its recommendations. They have warned of intensifying their agitation if concrete steps are not taken at the earliest. The ball is now in the government's court to address these grave allegations and restore credibility to the premier agricultural institution.
