Probe into claims that PhD admissions were improperly granted to those with disabilities
Andhra University’s In-charge Vice-Chancellor Prof. G Sasibhushan Rao has launched a comprehensive investigation into the Transdisciplinary Research Hub (TDR) following serious allegations of irregularities over the past five years. The inquiry is primarily focused on claims that PhD admissions were improperly granted to individuals with disabilities.
“Given the gravity of the allegations concerning PhD admissions, it is imperative that we conduct a thorough and impartial investigation,” stated Prof G Sasibhushan Rao. “We need to ensure that all processes within the TDR Hub are transparent and adhere to the highest standards of integrity.”
A special committee has been appointed to oversee the investigation, led by Prof Mallikarjuna Rao, who has replaced Prof. James Stephen as the TDR Hub Dean. The committee comprises Srikakulam District Ambedkar University Registrar Prof. P. Sujatha, Vizianagaram JNTU Prof K Sreekumar, AU Atmospheric and Ocean Studies Head Prof. Sunitha, and Electrical Engineering Department Prof. Gopichand Naik.
Prof Mallikarjuna Rao elaborated on the committee’s role. “Our task is to scrutinise the PhD admissions and ensure that the TDR Hub’s operations comply with established regulations. We will also examine the qualifications of approximately 400 individuals who have been appointed as guides, as well as the criteria for their selection.”
Currently, Andhra University has 600 researchers, some of whom were admitted through the ARSET process and others through an executive quota. The committee will review these admissions and the overall adherence to rules in order to provide a detailed report.
In light of the ongoing investigation, the university has suspended PhD admissions for the academic year 2024-25. “Although the RSET convener proposed 172 PhD seats for the TDR Hub, we have decided to delay admissions until the investigation is complete and a comprehensive report is submitted,” VC Prof G Sasibhushan Rao confirmed.
