The Democratic Students’ Alliance Manipur (DESAM) has criticized the Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal, for reappointing a retired faculty member to key administrative roles, alleging this breaches university policies.
In a press conference held at DESAM’s Kwakeithel office, President Mayengbam Somorjit denounced the university’s decision to reappoint the former dean, whose tenure concluded on July 31, 2024, as dean-in-charge of the College of Agriculture, Iroisemba, and director of Instruction. Somorjit argued that this reappointment violates established university regulations, particularly as other qualified senior professors are available for these positions.
“This reappointment of a retired faculty member to administrative roles clearly contravenes the university’s policies,” Somorjit stated. DESAM contends that while retired faculty might be allowed in academic roles, assigning them administrative positions such as dean or director is against the university’s rules.
The student organization has submitted a memorandum to the Union Minister, demanding the immediate revocation of the reappointment. They have given the university administration a five-day deadline to respond, threatening further agitation if their demands are not met.
“We insist on the immediate withdrawal of the reappointment order,” Somorjit asserted, urging the university to uphold its regulations and avoid undermining its institutional integrity.