Bangalore, 15 March 2016: Dr. H. Maheshappa, the vice chancellor of VTU (Visvesvaraya Technological University), which is one of the top universities in India is suspended with immediate effect. The Chancellor of the state universities asked him to step down from the VTU, Headquarters office, Belgaum.
The Order issued by the Governor’s secretariat on March 14, 2015 reads as follows: “Dr H Maheshappa vice chancellor Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belgaum is placed under suspension with immediate effect and untill further orders vide notifcation No: GS11 TUM 2014 (p) dated 14.03.2016.”
During the suspension of H. Maheshappa, the state chancellor has nominated Dr. H. G. Shekarappa Registrar (Evaluation) to carry forward all the duties of vice chancellor with immediate effect until further orders under section 13 (7) of the Visvesvaraya Technological University act 1994.
On the basis of reports submitted and by fact findings with proofs, the committee headed by Justice Keshavanaraya, Governor Vajubhai Vala issued a show-cause notice to H. Maheshappa on 29 January 2016 seeking explanation against 24 allegations. But even after 30 days, the vice chancellor did not bother to submit reply. According to sources from Raj Bhavan, the vice chancellor Maheshappa’s deadline to provide explanation was extended twice.
Considering the delay the chancellor insisted officials at Raj Bhavan on Monday evening to keep the order ready and issue it on Tuesday morning. Following the directions by the Governor Vajubhai vala the order suspending Maheshappa has been sent to VTU University via FAX around 10.15am on Tuesday, 15 March 2016.
The fact findings committee was framed and proofs were collected based on the allegations against Maheshappa in appointments, construction works conducted at campus, misuse of fixed deposits and many more areas. There were over 24 points given to the committee for inquiry.
Maheshappa is the second sitting VC to be removed. Soon after taking charge as governor of Karnataka Vajubhai Vala removed VC of karnataka university Dharwad Prof. HB Waliker.
Some of the major allegations on Dr. H. Maheshappa:
– Irregularities in awarding tender for construction works and purchase of various equipment and softwares in gross violation of KTTP act.
– Reduction of corpus fund which was more than Rs. 500 crore to significant levels.
– Irregularities in appointment of 168 teaching staff.
– Not following and honoring of his Excellency the Governor and Chancellor’s orders in connection with the appointment of UGC nominee to the executive council of the university.
Also read about various other scams reported earlier in 2015-2016 committed by the suspended vice chancellor H. Maheshappa here.
