A petition seeking an independent probe into the appointment of professor Narasingha Charan Panda as acting vice-chancellor (VC) at the Central University of Odisha (CUO), Sunabeda, has been forwarded by the president's secretariat to the department of higher education for appropriate action. The petition was submitted by Jeypore-based human rights activist Anup Kumar Patro to President Droupadi Murmu in her capacity as visitor of central universities. Besides seeking a probe, the petition also calls for the immediate appointment of a permanent VC at the university.
Audit Observations
Patro's representation draws heavily on observations made in the 2024-25 compliance audit conducted by the office of the director general of audit (central), Hyderabad. The audit reportedly raised question marks regarding Panda's appointment as professor at CUO in January 2023 while he was on extraordinary leave (EOL) from his parent institution, Panjab University. Referring to provisions of the central civil services leave rules, the auditors noted that a government employee on leave is generally not permitted to take up another employment unless the services are formally transferred or the employee resigns from the parent institution.
Concerns Raised
The petition highlights that Panda's appointment may have violated established norms, as he was on EOL from Panjab University when he joined CUO. The compliance audit further underscored that such a move could set a problematic precedent for central universities. The activist has urged the President to ensure a thorough investigation into the matter to uphold transparency and accountability in academic appointments.
In addition to the probe, the petition demands the immediate appointment of a permanent VC to ensure smooth functioning of the university. The current situation, with an acting VC whose appointment is under scrutiny, has raised concerns among faculty and students about governance and administrative stability at CUO.
