Ahmedabad: A controversy has surfaced at Gujarat University (GU) over the continued use of two official cars by the in-charge vice-chancellor, despite the abolition of the pro-vice-chancellor’s post under the Gujarat Public Universities Act, or Common Act, implemented in 2023.Before the new law came into force, state universities had separate provisions for vice-chancellors and pro-vice-chancellors, including dedicated official vehicles. GU had purchased a luxury car for the pro-vice-chancellor. However, after the post was scrapped, questions have emerged over why the vehicle remains in use.Sources said former vice-chancellor Dr Neerja Gupta continued using both official vehicles during her three-year tenure. Following the completion of her term on June 30, the director of the human resource development centre assumed charge as in charge vice-chancellor from July 1.Despite having access to the vehicle designated for the vice-chancellor, the in charge head is allegedly also using the car earlier assigned to the now-defunct pro-vice-chancellor’s post. Sources claimed that both vehicles are parked at the official bungalow and continue to be used.The controversy comes amid earlier debates over expenditure on official facilities at the university.
