Visakhapatnam, Aug. 1: The suspension of Andhra University Vice-Chancellor Prof. P.V.G.D. Prasada Reddy on the day of his retirement has raised many questions. The unusual timing has drawn attention across Andhra Pradesh. The suspension allows the university to continue disciplinary proceedings after his retirement.
The suspension was issued on July 31, shortly before Prof. Prasada Reddy retired as Professor. Under service rules, authorities can continue departmental proceedings more effectively if action is taken before an employee retires. If the charges are proved, the findings could also affect retirement benefits, subject to the applicable rules.
What are the allegations?
According to media reports quoting the Vigilance & Enforcement Department, the inquiry found several alleged irregularities during Prof. Prasada Reddy’s tenure as Vice-Chancellor.
The reported allegations include the misuse of RUSA funds, irregular spending on civil works and procurement, financial loss to the university through concessions in advertisement hoardings and ground rentals, and irregular appointments of teaching, non-teaching and retired staff.
The inquiry also reportedly flagged irregularities in admissions to some postgraduate and Ph.D. programmes, procedural violations in academic administration, and the continuation of certain senior officials beyond the prescribed norms. It was also reported that the vigilance inquiry recommended departmental action against several officials and suggested criminal investigation in specific cases.
Government’s stand
The issue came into the spotlight earlier this year when Higher Education Minister Nara Lokesh informed the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly that the Government had ordered a vigilance inquiry into the former Vice-Chancellor’s tenure.
The Minister alleged misuse of public funds, irregular appointments, abuse of authority, corruption in administrative decisions, irregularities in distance education examinations, and the use of university students and resources for political programmes. These are the Government’s allegations and will be examined during the disciplinary process.
What happens next?
The suspension is only the first step in the process. The former Vice-Chancellor will have an opportunity to present his defence before the inquiry is completed.
If the inquiry finds evidence of misconduct, the authorities may take disciplinary action under the service rules. If any criminal offences are found, they would be investigated separately under the law.
The final outcome will depend on the evidence produced during the departmental proceedings and any subsequent judicial process.
The case is likely to be closely watched because it involves one of Andhra Pradesh’s oldest and most prestigious universities. It could also shape future discussions on accountability, transparency and governance in higher education.
