Cuttack: In the wake of allegations of irregularities in Ravenshaw University and subsequent direction of the Governor-cum-Chancellor for a probe, a single-member team of Higher Education department’s additional secretary reached the university here Tuesday and started the investigation.
Briefing the media, Higher Education department (HED) additional secretary Prasant Kumar Das said, “There are a lot of allegations of irregularities in Ravenshaw University. I’ve been ordered to conduct a probe into the matter. I will do my best and submit my report.”
“The allegations include irregularities in management, appointment of staff and financial matters,” he said.
“I have to assess how far I can conduct the probe. In due course of my enquiry, I will proceed for further queries with prior intimation to higher authorities as per the requirement. I will then submit my report to our department’s Principal Secretary.”
The move comes after Governor and RU Chancellor Ganeshi Lal sought a probe into the alleged irregularities and directed the HED for immediate action in July this year. He had also ordered to submit the report within 60 days.
According to HED sources, there are 50 to 60 allegations on various matters. The inquiry has been ordered after the department received a series of complaints against the authorities of Ravenshaw and Berhampur universities.
The HED has already shot off letters to both the varsities seeking documents related to various aspects like mode of promotions, process of recruitments and audit reports.