KSOU VC given full powers months before term ends, triggering concerns

Mysuru: Despite his tenure set to expire in under two months, Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) vice-chancellor Sharanappa V Halse has been granted full administrative powers by governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot, who is also the chancellor of the varsity, contrary to a 2021 order restricting such powers close to the end of a VC's term.

According to the latest order issued by the governor, following the VC's request, the chancellor permitted Halse to carry out all necessary functions and duties of the VC by relaxing the guidelines issued in Sept 2021. The 2021 circular directed VCs not to take major policy decisions within two months of the end of their tenure, allowing such decisions only with prior permission in case of urgency.

The order has drawn criticism from both the govt and sections of the university staff.

Whistleblower Jagadish Babu HK, secretary of KSOU Permanent Teachers Association, urged the governor to clarify his stand. "This relaxation was extended to the VC within a day after he made an appeal in this regard, which was surprising," he said.

Babu said the governor's secretariat had earlier instructed vice-chancellors not to take major decisions up to six months before the end of their tenure. "Later in 2021, this was reduced to two months. Now, why has this special provision been provided to KSOU when the incumbent VC is on extension?" he questioned.

Former KSOU VC NS Ramegowda said that, as per the governor's secretariat order, a VC should not take major decisions if the tenure expires within the next six months. "The current VC's tenure will be completed by the end of June," he said.

Ramegowda also said the state govt had breached the university's autonomy by issuing a show-cause notice to the VC for attending an event. "This is like taking over the powers of the VC," he said.

VC Halse was not available for comment.


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