Antisocial activities and administrative disorder seems to be the order of day in the Berhampur University campus. According to information available, some unidentified miscreants reportedly set ablaze the official chamber of a former Professor of Political Science and former Chairman of PG Council Prof Bishnu Charan Choudhury on Monday last.
The door of the chamber and some of the learning resources were reportedly damaged. The miscreants also ransacked the room.
Notably, Prof Choudhury retired from service on June 30 last year. Inspite of his retirement, he had kept the room in his possession and retained the keys with him, as he was often visiting the university on different assignments and was taking classes in the department. He knew on Monday morning that his chamber was set on fire.
Since kerosene was found on the spot, the incident is presumed to be completely pre-planned. On the other hand, a night watchman said that till 11 pm of Sunday, the department was alright and the office chamber was in order. The university authorities have reported the matter to the Gopalpur police station.
After getting a complaint, a police team reached the spot and started an investigation. Gopalpur Police Station IIC Pragyan Paramita Jena assured that stern action would be taken against the culprits.
It is worth mentioning here all the NMR workers of the university are on a hunger strike in support of their various demands since Monday morning and taking advantage of their absence in duty, the miscreants created such nuisance.
Some insiders, however, questioned how the former Professor was given relief order when he had not handed over the room.
With these rising incidents of hooliganism, students and employee unrest, incompatible study environment and reported corrupt practices, there is a strong public perception that the Government should appoint a strict IAS officer as Administrator to look after the day to day administration of the university.