The State government’s decision to withdraw the nominations made by the previous government to the Syndicates of State-run universities seems to have ruffled feathers within the Congress-JD(S) coalition.
While this is the norm with every change in government, the decision has acquired political importance as former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah — now the coordination committee chairman of the coalition government — had written to his successor H.D. Kumaraswamy 10 days ago asking him to retain the nominees.
The Syndicate is the highest decision-making body of any university.
Minister for Higher Education G.T. Deve Gowda, who also defeated Mr. Siddaramaiah from Chamundeshwari constituency in the Assembly elections, said on Wednesday that the government would appoint the new members of academic bodies such as Syndicates and those appointed by the previous regime had been terminated.
While the tenure of some Syndicate members was about to end, some had not served for more than a few months. In fact, a few had not even attended one Syndicate meeting. “The government’s step should not be seen in the wrong light since it is usual to appoint new members whenever a new government comes to power,” Mr. Gowda said.
Sources in the department said a similar move was made when the Congress came to power five years ago. But the fact that this is a coalition government, with the Congress being a partner, changes the equation.
Responding to reporters’ questions on the letter written by Mr. Siddaramaiah asking for retention of the members of Syndicates and other academic bodies appointed by him, Mr. Gowda said the opinion of the former CM would be taken into consideration while making the new appointments. He said he would also discuss the matter with Mr. Kumaraswamy and Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara.
Several aspirants hoping to be appointed as Syndicate members have already started approaching Mr. Gowda.
Other letters
Interestingly, Mr. Siddaramaiah had written letters to the Chief Minister earlier as well, one seeking restoration of the quantum of rice of 7 kg under the Anna Bhagya scheme, and another seeking reduction in fuel tax. Both these are yet to be considered by Mr. Kumaraswamy. Besides, he has written several letters seeking amenities for Badami, the constituency he represents in the Assembly.
