A search committee formed by Governor Haribhau Bagde has finalized a shortlist of candidates for the position of vice-chancellor at Mohanlal Sukhadia University (MLSU). Among those named is University of Rajasthan Vice-Chancellor Alpana Kateja, who is currently under investigation for alleged financial irregularities.
Kateja's Controversial Inclusion
Kateja, appointed as RU vice-chancellor in September 2023, has faced scrutiny following complaints about her administrative decisions. Her inclusion in the MLSU shortlist, even as the inquiry remains pending, has sparked discussion in academic and administrative circles.
The MLSU vice-chancellor post has been vacant since Sunita Mishra resigned in September 2025 after a controversy over remarks praising Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
Inquiry Status
Sources said an inquiry committee constituted in May 2025 to investigate allegations against Kateja has yet to submit its report. The panel is headed by Jaipur Divisional Commissioner IV Saravana Kumar, who did not respond to queries.
"In many states, it is a norm that the search committee seeks vigilance clearance from the Governor's office before shortlisting names. That process appears not to have been followed in this case," a source said.
Selection Process
The search committee, chaired by former MDS University vice-chancellor Kailash Sodani, shortlisted candidates based on recommendations from the university, the Governor's office, the state government, and the UGC.
Other Candidates
Other names on the shortlist include law professor Anand Paliwal, Janardan Rai Nagar Rajasthan Vidyapeeth vice-chancellor SS Sarangdevot, and retired MLSU professors Kailash Daga and Seema Malik. Sources indicated Paliwal may not meet the minimum required tenure as a professor, though this could not be independently verified.
Queries sent to the Governor's office remained unanswered.
