Motihari, Bihar: Mahatma Gandhi Central University has issued a formal clarification rejecting recent media reports that questioned the appointment of its Vice-Chancellor, calling the claims inaccurate and unsupported by law.
In a statement released by the university, MGCU said the appointment was carried out in accordance with the Central Universities Act and applicable regulations of the University Grants Commission. The process, the university said, involved a duly constituted Search-cum-Selection Committee and approval by the competent statutory authorities.
The reports have focused on the eligibility of Prof. Sanjay Srivastava, the current Vice-Chancellor. MGCU stated that Prof. Srivastava has been serving as a Professor since July 27, 2009, and therefore met and exceeded the experience requirements specified at the time the post was advertised.
Call for Verification in Reporting
MGCU criticized what it termed speculative reporting, saying it undermines institutional credibility. The statement emphasized that responsible journalism requires verification from authoritative sources, particularly when reporting on statutory appointments and public universities.
The clarification comes amid broader debates in India’s higher education sector, where administrative appointments and governance decisions are increasingly subject to public scrutiny and legal challenge.
Academic and Institutional Developments
Alongside its rebuttal, MGCU highlighted recent academic and institutional developments under Prof. Srivastava’s tenure. The university said it has acquired most of its designated land from the Bihar government and completed the Detailed Project Report for its permanent campus, which has been submitted to the Ministry of Education for approval.
MGCU also reported progress in implementing reforms aligned with the National Education Policy, including curriculum revisions and changes in academic governance.
The university hosted two convocations attended by the President of India in 2023 and the Vice President of India in 2024, events the administration cited as recognition of its national profile.
In rankings, MGCU placed 20th among central universities in India in the 2024 listings by the IIRF, with expectations of inclusion in future NIRF assessments.
Research output and student performance were also highlighted. The university said it has awarded around 100 PhD degrees and undertaken reforms in doctoral governance. More than 100 students have qualified for UGC-NET and JRF examinations, while approximately 50 have cleared GATE, with some gaining admission to IITs, including IIT Bombay. MGCU also reported regular campus placements, including selections in national banking institutions.
Faculty members have secured research grants from national bodies such as ICSSR and ICMR, and the university has received recognition at academic and innovation platforms, including events held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
Institutional Position
MGCU said it remains committed to transparency, academic integrity and constitutional values, and that it reserves the right to take action against what it described as deliberate misinformation.
The university advised students, parents and other stakeholders to rely on official communications for accurate information. It added that it would continue to focus on academic development and institutional growth while addressing concerns through established legal and administrative channels.
