Mysuru: Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) Vice-Chancellor Sharanappa V Halse has been granted full administrative powers by Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot, who also serves as the university's chancellor. This decision comes despite Halse's tenure being set to expire in less than two months, contradicting a 2021 order that limited such powers for vice-chancellors nearing the end of their terms.
Governor's Order Overrules 2021 Guidelines
According to the latest order issued by the governor, following a request from the VC, the chancellor permitted Halse to carry out all necessary functions and duties by relaxing the guidelines issued in September 2021. The 2021 circular had directed VCs not to take major policy decisions within two months of the end of their tenure, allowing such decisions only with prior permission in cases of urgency.
Criticism from Government and University Staff
The order has drawn sharp criticism from both the state government and sections of the university staff. Whistleblower Jagadish Babu HK, secretary of the KSOU Permanent Teachers Association, urged the governor to clarify his stand. "This relaxation was extended to the VC within a day after he made an appeal in this regard, which was surprising," he said.
Babu noted that the governor's secretariat had earlier instructed vice-chancellors not to take major decisions up to six months before the end of their tenure. "Later in 2021, this was reduced to two months. Now, why has this special provision been provided to KSOU when the incumbent VC is on extension?" he questioned.
Former VC Raises Concerns
Former KSOU VC NS Ramegowda said that, as per the governor's secretariat order, a VC should not take major decisions if the tenure expires within the next six months. "The current VC's tenure will be completed by the end of June," he pointed out. Ramegowda also criticized the state government for breaching the university's autonomy by issuing a show-cause notice to the VC for attending an event. "This is like taking over the powers of the VC," he added.
Board Member Questions Special Provision
Mahesh Sosale, a member of the KSOU Board of Management, said extending a special provision to a particular university raises questions and could lead to more challenges in the coming days. VC Halse was not available for comment.
