Vadodara: A former senate member of Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU) raised a legal objection to Prof Bhavna Mehta holding the posts of dean of the Faculty of Social Work, and controller of examinations (CoE) simultaneously.In a memorandum to the MSU vice-chancellor on Monday, Kapil Joshi contended that the post of CoE is a full-time statutory position under the Gujarat govt’s gazette (extraordinary) dated July 31, 2024, and cannot be held alongside another substantive office.
He argued that the term “whole-time salaried officer” implies exclusivity and leaves no scope for dual administrative responsibilities.Joshi also questioned the continuation of the controller’s post on “in-charge” basis, stating that temporary arrangements are permissible only in limited circumstances and that prolonged continuation amounts to bypassing the statutory recruitment process mandated under UGC rules.Citing the controller’s responsibilities, including the conduct of examinations, custody of confidential papers, declaration of results and convocation arrangements, he said the role requires undivided attention. He added that the office of dean also carries independent statutory duties, and that no enabling provision permits the simultaneous holding of both posts.Describing the arrangement as legally unsustainable and contrary to statutory provisions, Joshi sought an immediate review, clarification of the legal basis for the dual role, initiation of regular recruitment for CoE, and removal of Prof Mehta from one of the posts.
