Amid the ongoing standoff between the Himachal Pradesh government and the Raj Bhavan over the appointment of vice-chancellors, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Wednesday questioned whether the state government intends to follow the Constitution or “bypass everybody.”
The Governor made these comments while speaking to mediapersons after flagging off two vehicles carrying relief material for disaster-hit people of Kullu and Chamba districts.
On the appointment of vice-chancellors to two universities, Shukla said, “The state government should be asked whether it wants to work according to the law and the Constitution or it wishes to bypass everybody. If the government wants to bypass everybody, I do not have to say anything.
He added, “I am not here just for appointment of the VCs but to see how to ensure welfare of the people of the state.”
A tussle has been ongoing between the Congress-led state government and the Raj Bhavan over the appointment of VCs to CKS Agriculture University, Palampur, and Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan.
In August, the state assembly passed the Himachal Pradesh Universities of Agriculture, Horticulture and Forestry (Amendment) Bill again without any change, stating that the elected government must have a role in VC appointments.
The governor had earlier suggested aligning the 2023 Bill with the Centre’s Model Act for Higher Agricultural Educational Institutions in India, under which the governor, as chancellor, appoints VCs based on recommendations from a selection committee including nominees from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), and Universities Grants Commission (UGC).
The Bill, introduced by Agriculture Minister Chander Kumar, proposes that the governor appoint VCs on the advice of the state government, since these universities receive grants from the state.
On Wednesday, Governor Shukla also sent a relief consignment through the Himachal Pradesh State Red Cross Society to aid families affected by recent natural calamities. The supplies included 74 kitchen sets, 300 tarpaulin sheets, 280 blankets, 20 shelter tool kits, and other essentials.
He praised the Red Cross Society for its timely humanitarian work and assured that relief efforts will continue, with additional support to be sent if required.
Sukhu to inaugurate 6-day Renukaji Fair on Friday
Follow us
