Gujarat University Takes Action: Mukesh Khatik Suspended for Harassment, 3 Professors Disciplined, 70 Promoted

Key Decisions Taken in the First Syndicate and Board of Management Meeting After the Implementation of Public University Act in Gujarat University

Following the implementation of the Public University Act at Gujarat University, the first Syndicate and Board of Management meeting took place, addressing several crucial matters. The meeting resulted in the suspension of Professor Mukesh Khatik, who allegedly subjected a female professor of social work to mental harassment. Additionally, Professor Vanrajsinh Chavda and Professor Vipul Patel were suspended in connection with fraudulent appointments in the recruitment of 17 professors.

The case of financial irregularities in the HPP course has been handed over to the investigation committee, headed by Professor Kamaljit Lakhatriya. Furthermore, all professors, except those under suspension, will be eligible for the benefits of the Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) after this decision.

After WDC Report, Professor Mukesh Khatik Suspended

Professor Mukesh Khatik, a Political Science professor at the Department of Social Work, Gujarat University, has been suspended following a complaint filed by a female professor in his department. The female professor alleged that Mukesh Khatik has been causing mental harassment to her in an inappropriate manner. The allowance for the female professor, meant for her future research, has been withheld, and she has faced difficulties in getting approval for research on paper. Despite occasional requests, her mental distress has not been addressed. The case was investigated by the Women’s Development Cell (WDC) of Gujarat University, which prepared a report. Based on the report, in today’s meeting, Mukesh Khatik has been suspended. A retired judge’s committee will be formed to conduct an inquiry against him.

Committee Submits Report on Alleged Irregularities in Recruitment of 17 Professors at Gujarat University

The Higher Education department of Gujarat University formed a probe committee to investigate allegations of irregularities in the recruitment process of 17 professors. The committee conducted an in-depth investigation into the documentation and other aspects of the professor’s recruitment. Upon completion of the investigation, the committee submitted its report to the university today. Based on the report, a meeting was held, and Gujarat University has suspended Professor Vanrajsinh Chavda and Professor Vipul Patel, both from the Department of Social Work. Further inquiry into the recruitment case will be conducted by a newly appointed probe committee in the coming days.

Professors at Gujarat University to Benefit from Career Advancement Scheme

Following allegations of financial irregularities in the Higher Payment Programme (HPP) course within the Computer Science and Animation departments, Professor Kamaljit Lakhtariya faced an inquiry committee during his tenure. The committee, which includes experts from the Gujarat University, will thoroughly investigate the alleged financial discrepancies. Moreover, the professors involved will also reap the benefits of the Career Advancement Scheme. This scheme promises promotions and salary hikes, with over 70 professors set to receive promotions today, marking a significant step in their academic careers.

Assistant Professor Lodges Complaint Alleging Mental Harassment

Assistant Professor Mukesh Khattik from the Department of Sociology at Gujarat University has filed a complaint against the Vice-Chancellor, accusing him of mental harassment. According to the complaint, the female professor seeks promotion under the Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) but has not been processed correctly by the department head for the last two days. Previously, on April 22, May 9, and July 20, the Vice-Chancellor had been accused of causing mental distress, but no action was taken, leading Mukesh Khattik to raise concerns about obstruction in educational activities and mental harassment in his official responsibilities.

Mukesh Khattik Alleges Denial of Vehicle Allowance, Cites Administrative Hurdles

Mukesh Khattik, who has been working as a permanent employee receiving vehicle allowances from the government since October 2022, has claimed that he has not been receiving vehicle allowances regularly due to discrepancies at the university office. Despite being eligible for the allowance, he reported instances where his vehicle allowances were not credited, especially after inquiring about it telephonically at the university office. According to him, the misuse of power has led to a lack of accountability for the allowances sanctioned by the government. Furthermore, he stressed the need for regular courses for career advancement, emphasizing that the denial of such courses hinders professional growth. Mukesh Khattik has also revealed ongoing mental distress issues that he has faced intermittently in recent times.