THN Bureau
A controversy has erupted over alleged irregularities in the University of Jammu regarding the appointment of its Registrar, with former Jammu University Research Scholars Executive Association (JURSEA) President Dr. Vikas Sharma calling for a high-level investigation into the matter.
In a recent meeting, Dr. Sharma raised serious questions about the university administration’s handling of Neeraj Sharma’s case, particularly focusing on the institution’s decision not to challenge a favorable High Court single bench order in his favor.
The case dates back to 2011 when the then Chancellor ordered an inquiry into alleged irregularities. The inquiry committee found Neeraj Sharma’s promotion illegal, leading to his demotion on Chancellor N.N. Vohra’s orders. However, Neeraj Sharma challenged this decision in the High Court and, after a decade-long legal battle, secured a favorable judgment from a single bench.
Dr. Vikas Sharma highlighted what he perceives as preferential treatment, noting that while the university typically pursues legal cases against other employees up to the Supreme Court level, it chose not to challenge Neeraj Sharma’s favorable single bench order in a division bench of the High Court.
The former JURSEA President has appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, requesting him to investigate why the university administration didn’t contest the single bench order and examine the circumstances surrounding Neeraj Sharma’s eligibility and subsequent selection as Registrar.
Dr. Sharma has suggested that if any wrongdoing is discovered on the Vice Chancellor’s part, legal action should be initiated. He has also urged the Chief Minister, in his capacity as Pro Vice Chancellor, to personally review the selection committee’s files for administrative posts before any appointment letter is issued.
The allegations raise significant questions about transparency in the university’s administrative appointments and have sparked debates about the need for stronger oversight in academic institutions’ recruitment processes.
