Nagpur University VC's Official Bungalow Remains Vacant Amid Renovation Delays
More than a month after taking charge, Nagpur University Vice-Chancellor Manali Kshirsagar continues to wait for her official residence. The bungalow located off Ambazari bypass remains unoccupied as renovation and repair work progresses slowly.
Historical Vacancy and Current Status
The bungalow has stood empty since the passing of former Vice-Chancellor Dr Subhash Chaudhari in September 2024. University officials discovered the property in a severely dilapidated condition, requiring comprehensive repairs before any occupancy could occur.
University authorities confirm the renovation of this decades-old structure is approaching completion. Kshirsagar expects to shift into the residence once all pending work finishes completely. A new approach road connecting the bungalow to the VC's campus office is already operational, significantly improving access to the official residence.
Administrative Priorities Take Precedence
Speaking with reporters recently during the university's 113th convocation ceremony preparations, Kshirsagar clarified her current focus. She emphasized that moving into the official residence does not represent an immediate priority for her administration.
"The repair work continues actively. There remains adequate time before I need to occupy the official bungalow. My present concentration involves addressing crucial administrative matters and ensuring examination processes run smoothly," Kshirsagar stated clearly.
Previous Condition and Renovation Decisions
Nagpur University previously planned a major overhaul for the Vice-Chancellor's bungalow after officiating VC Prashant Bokare declared it "unfit for occupation." The ground plus-two structure, originally constructed during the 1960s on a 25,000 square foot plot overlooking Ambazari Lake, presented numerous problems.
Reports indicated the property suffered from:
- Extensive broken furniture throughout
- Shabby and worn interior spaces
- Significant rodent infestation issues
Interim Vice-Chancellor Madhavi Khode Chawre, who assumed charge after September 2024, deliberately chose not to move into the bungalow due to its extremely poor condition.
Budget Allocation and Controversy
The university's January 2025 budget included a substantial provision of ₹3 crore specifically for renovating the Vice-Chancellor's bungalow. This allocation sparked considerable debate and controversy across the university community.
The budgetary decision proved particularly contentious because it occurred simultaneously with university efforts to reduce non-essential expenditures. Initial discussions even considered demolishing the existing structure entirely, but university authorities ultimately decided differently.
The final resolution involved retaining the original building while giving it a comprehensive facelift to properly accommodate the new full-time Vice-Chancellor. This approach balanced historical preservation with modern functional requirements.
