The NDA government in the State is following a transparent process in the appointment of Vice-Chancellors, says Andhra Pradesh HRD Minister N. Lokesh.
| Photo Credit: K.V.S. GIRI

Andhra Pradesh Minister for Human Resources Development (HRD) N. Lokesh has dismissed the YSR Congress Party’s (YSRCP) allegations that Vice-Chancellors of various universities in the State had put in their papers under duress.

Speaking in the Legislative Council on Tuesday, Mr. Lokesh asserted that the NDA government in the State followed a transparent process in the appointment of Vice-Chancellors, and challenged the YSRCP members to provide evidence in support of their allegations.

Refuting the accusation that the Vice-Chancellors were coerced into resigning to their post, Mr. Lokesh said, “Show me where the word ‘threatened’ appears in any resignation letter.”

Out of the 17 Vice-Chancellors who had resigned, 10 cited personal reasons, two wanted to give a free hand to the government, and five stepped down following oral instructions. “None of them mentioned being pressured, or receiving threatening calls,” the Minister asserted.

Recalling similar instances when the YSRCP was in power, and citing examples from institutions such as RGUKT, Rayalaseema and Dravidian universities, Mr. Lokesh sought that the matter be referred to the Privilege Committee for investigation, while emphasising that he had several documented instances from 2019 to support his claims.

Taking a dig at the YSRCP government, Mr. Lokesh alleged that it misused the Education Department as an “ATM for financial gain.” He accused the previous government of implementing policies that had driven 1.2 million students away from government schools, and questioned its controversial appointment of “unqualified Vice-Chancellors.”

Highlighting the reforms being ushered in by the NDA dispensation, Mr. Lokesh said the government reduced the cost of school kits and midday meal programme, and was committed to improving transparency in the education sector. He challenged the Opposition to debate these issues openly.

“The coalition government stands for democratic governance. Unlike the YSRCP’s term, we have nothing to hide,” Mr. Lokesh asserted.