Rajasthan Vidyapeeth Reviews Financial and Administrative Systems

Udaipur, Rajasthan Vidyapeeth has initiated a comprehensive review of its financial, administrative and academic systems amid concerns over the institution’s current financial position and various matters relating to the tenure of former Vice Chancellor S.S. Sarangdevot. Addressing the media on Saturday, Chancellor Bhanwar Lal Gurjar shared details of the university’s current financial position and issues under review. Vice Chancellor Prof. Manju Mandot outlined the measures being undertaken to strengthen financial discipline, administrative processes and institutional governance. Financial Position Under Review Chancellor Bhanwar Lal Gurjar said the university is currently facing financial pressure. According to the information shared during the press briefing, the university had earlier been reported to have approximately ₹36 crore in funds toward the end of former Vice Chancellor S.S. Sarangdevot’s tenure. The Chancellor stated that the subsequent review indicated that around ₹19 crore was linked to an overdraft facility, while approximately ₹17 crore was described as corpus funds. The management said the current financial position has made it necessary to reassess financial priorities, particularly with regard to salary payments and other recurring institutional commitments. Review of Salary Payments and Advances The management also highlighted the issue of advance payments made to employees. According to the briefing, advances of approximately ₹4 crore are under review. Vice Chancellor Prof. Manju Mandot said the concerned departments have been informed and that the documentation, purpose and approval process associated with such advances are being examined. She said further action would be taken in accordance with applicable rules after completion of the review. Appointments and Service Records Under Examination Questions were also raised during the press conference regarding appointments, pay structures and other employee-related matters during the tenure of former Vice Chancellor S.S. Sarangdevot. The Chancellor said certain appointments and service records are being reviewed. Prof. Manju Mandot said the university is also examining documentation related to some employees who have been associated with the institution for several years. The objective, she said, is to ensure that administrative and employment processes are aligned with applicable institutional rules and procedures. Review of PhD and Academic Processes The university is also reviewing matters related to PhD admissions, research supervision and other academic processes. During the press conference, allegations of irregularities in some academic and administrative matters were raised. Chancellor Bhanwar Lal Gurjar said that if any violation of rules or irregularity is established during the inquiry, appropriate action would be taken as per the applicable legal and institutional framework. The allegations have not been independently verified. The response of former Vice Chancellor S.S. Sarangdevot was not available at the press briefing. Dispute Over Former VC’s Tenure The press conference also referred to the controversy surrounding the tenure of former Vice Chancellor S.S. Sarangdevot. According to the Chancellor, a dispute emerged after the completion of the former VC’s tenure, followed by protests and demands concerning his continuation in office. The Chancellor said the university subsequently proceeded with the process of appointing a new Vice Chancellor. He added that matters relating to the university’s financial, administrative and academic systems are being examined on the basis of records and available facts. High Court Proceedings Also Referred To The Chancellor also referred to legal proceedings concerning the dispute involving the former Vice Chancellor. According to his account, both sides were represented by senior advocates before the High Court and the matter subsequently reached a stage where the resignation of the former Vice Chancellor was accepted. Prof. Manju Mandot Outlines Institutional Priorities Vice Chancellor Prof. Manju Mandot said the university is undertaking a structured review of its financial and administrative systems. She said the review covers financial liabilities, employee advances, appointments and academic processes. Strengthening financial stability while protecting the interests of employees and students, she said, remains a key priority. Prof. Manju Mandot emphasised that Rajasthan Vidyapeeth is a longstanding educational institution and that efforts are focused on strengthening its institutional systems and ensuring sustainable operations. She expressed confidence that continued corrective measures would help bring the university’s financial and administrative systems onto a more stable footing over the coming months. Appeal for Factual Reporting and Cooperation Chancellor Bhanwar Lal Gurjar appealed to the media and members of society to support Rajasthan Vidyapeeth during the current phase and ensure factual reporting on matters concerning the institution. The management said reviews into financial, administrative and academic matters are continuing and that further action will be based on findings emerging from the respective inquiries.