Pune: A controversy has erupted at Savitribai Phule Pune University following the appointment of experts to nine academic chairs.
The university’s Senate members have raised serious concerns, alleging that the recruitment process violated established rules and that the individuals selected for the positions lack the necessary expertise in the subjects associated with the chairs.
The academic chairs, named in honor of prominent figures such as Sant Namdev Maharaj, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, and Lokmanya Tilak, serve as platforms to promote their thoughts and philosophies to future generations.
These chairs are also seen as key to raising social awareness through various events and programs.
In recent times, Senate members had criticized the university administration for leaving these important positions vacant, effectively stalling the intellectual and cultural work these chairs are meant to accomplish.
In response to this criticism, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Suresh Gosavi announced the appointment of experts to the nine vacant chairs.
While some appointments, such as that of senior poet Aruna Dhere, were well-received, others have been met with skepticism. Senate members claim that several appointees have no connection to the subjects or figures the chairs represent.
Key objections have been raised regarding the lack of transparency in the appointment process. According to critics, the university failed to advertise the positions, and the names of the committee members responsible for the selections have not been disclosed.
Furthermore, there are allegations that some individuals appointed to the chairs have previous criminal charges against them.
List of Appointments to Academic Chairs:
Sant Namdev Chair: Dr. Shama Ghonse
Dr. D. S. Sawkar Chair: Dr. Ashok Kamble
Lokshahir Annabhau Sathe Chair: Dr. Sunil Bhandge
Lokmanya Tilak Chair: Dr. Dilip Seth
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Chair: Dr. Sudhakar Bokefode
Padma Shri Vikhe-Patil Chair: Dr. Anil Karanjkar
Sant Tukaram Maharaj Chair: Dr. Gajanan Ambhore
Sant Namdev (Second Appointment): Dr. Aruna Dhere
The controversy took another turn when Senate member Sachin Gorde warned that protests would be organized unless the appointments are immediately suspended.
The Students’ Action Committee of the university, led by its president Rahul Sasane, has issued a strong warning of protests unless immediate action is taken to revoke the appointment of a controversial individual to the Sant Namdev chair. Sasane pointed out that this appointee had previously made objectionable statements about the revered historical figure Ahilyadevi Holkar, and called for the immediate cancellation of the appointment.
