With the University of Mumbai most likely to miss the results declaration deadline of July 31, despite instructions from Chancellor and Maharashtra Governor Ch. Vidyasagar Rao, Vice Chancellor Dr. Sanjay Deshmukh’s exit is looking imminent. The Opposition parties have blamed Mr. Deshmukh for the delay in results to final year examinations, and have demanded resignations from him, State Education Minister Vinod Tawde and Minister of State for Higher Education Ravindra Waikar.
Sources said Mr. Deshmukh, considered close to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and backed by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, is said to have lost the latter’s support. “Even if the results are announced on Monday, the CM is disappointed with the online paper checking fiasco and the humiliation the government has been subjected to.” They added that the results mess that has marred the reputation of one of the country’s most reputed universities, has soured relations between the VC and the RSS as well.
Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant said, “The only reason for bringing [Mr. Deshmukh] in was his affiliation to the RSS, not his qualifications. University students are now facing the threat of losing an academic year because of one man’s fault. We demand his ouster at the earliest. Not only the VC, both ministers are equally responsible. They must also accept moral responsibility and resign.” The demand for Dr Deshmukh’s removal has been raised by Yuva Sena leader Aditya Thackeray and former MU VC Bhalchandra Mungekar.
Mr. Deshmukh was earlier with the Rambhau Mhalagi Prabodhini in Uttan, considered to be the RSS’s think-tank. During the previous NDA government, he worked closely with then Environment Minister Suresh Prahu. Given his connections, he may be given the option of resigning, sources said.
