The appointment of the principal of Bharati College has been quashed by the Delhi University (DU) after the college's governing body objected to the selection process, saying the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) rules were violated.
Governing body chairman Daya Nath Jha had written to the DU, demanding that the appointment be quashed as the apex committee of the university did not finalise the name on the basis of merit.
The interview for the appointment of a permanent principal in Bharati College was held on August 10. The governing body had sent three names, which were placed in the order of preference.
According to the governing body, the DU’s apex committee recommended the third name on the panel for appointment, ignoring the first two names. In a circular issued on September 11 to Jha, the Assistant Registrar (colleges) of the DU said, "I have been directed to inform you that it has been decided that the letter dated 22.08.2022 issued in connection with the appointment of principal stands withdrawn. Consequently, the said selection process stands quashed.
"In view of the above, I have been further directed to take immediate necessary steps in re-advertising the post of principal of your college in terms of the proviso of Ordinance XVIII, Clause 7 of the university, after taking into account the qualifications or eligibility criteria envisaged under Ordinance XXIV of the university conveyed to the colleges or institutions of the university."
According to sources, the selection of the Principal of Bharati College was challenged by Professor Rekha Sapra and Dr Nandani C Sen and they had filed a writ petition before Delhi High Court.