Financial Irregularities Worth Rs 134 Crore Unearthed in Uttarakhand’s Government Universities.

Financial Irregularities Worth Rs 134 Crore Unearthed in Uttarakhand’s Government Universities.

Dehradun: Startling revelations have emerged in the financial management of seven government universities in Uttarakhand, with financial irregularities amounting to a staggering Rs 134 crore coming to light. These universities stand accused of unauthorized recruitment and service extensions, a report tabled in the state assembly has disclosed.

Open University’s Dubious Appointments and Unaccounted Advances

The report highlights that the Open University, in particular, made appointments of 38 individuals without creating corresponding posts, leading to irregular payments amounting to Rs 40.58 lakh. Additionally, the university employed administrative and educational consultants on fixed salaries without officially establishing posts, resulting in an irregular expenditure of Rs 1,44,77,000. Shockingly, advances amounting to Rs 3.15 crore remained unaccounted for over three years.

Pantnagar University’s Improper Disbursement and Unapproved Purchases

Pantnagar University faces allegations of disbursing Rs 35.89 crore to individuals not covered by the career advancement scheme, wrongly increasing the retirement age for some. Furthermore, the university reportedly made purchases amounting to Rs 12.91 lakh without adhering to established regulations and procedures.

Sanskrit University’s Unfair Profit through Recognition

The report also exposes Sanskrit University for accruing an “unfair profit” of Rs 4 crore by according recognition to various colleges, educational institutions, and professional courses. These actions have raised significant concerns about transparency and fairness in the university’s operations.

Financial Irregularities in Other Universities

Other universities, such as Kumaon University and Ayurveda University, have not escaped scrutiny. Kumaon University allegedly paid a firm an excessive amount of Rs 23,80,000 for computerizing the examination process, while Ayurveda University was found to have mishandled online counseling funds and made excess payments to security service providers.

In response to these shocking revelations, Uttarakhand Finance Minister Premchand stated, “The matter pertains to the universities, over which the Governor also has direct control. A thorough investigation into the irregularities and accountability will be initiated.

“This startling report underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive examination of financial practices within Uttarakhand’s government universities. It not only highlights the substantial financial losses incurred but also raises questions about the governance and oversight mechanisms in place.

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Asif Iqbal

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