TISS Pro-VC Asked to Step Down Over Alleged Irregularities

Fast Summary

• Institutional Action: The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) has asked its pro-vice-chancellor, Prof Shankar Das, to step down immediately after approval from the competent authority.
• Allegations: das faces allegations of financial misappropriation and irregularities in appointing project staff. A complaint was reportedly filed with the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), prompting an internal investigation. Preliminary findings indicated substance in the accusations.
• Das’ Response: Prof Shankar Das refuted the allegations as baseless and claimed they were a targeted attempt to damage his reputation. He expressed shock citing his unblemished record over 35 years at TISS and vowed faith in discovering the truth.
• Additional Context: Some institute faculty alleged “high-handed management” by Das,including claims that he threatened colleagues with legal complaints using students if orders weren’t followed.
• Career Note: Despite stepping down, Das will continue as a professor at TISS.He previously served as interim VC at Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, Pune.

!Image: Prof Shankar Das

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Indian Opinion Analysis

The removal of TISS pro-Vice-Chancellor Shankar Das highlights issues within institutional governance, accountability mechanisms, and ethical conduct in higher education leadership roles in India. Allegations such as financial misappropriations or hiring irregularities are serious concerns for any institution but require proper procedural investigations before drawing conclusions.

Das’ long-standing association with TISS provides him credibility among some circles but dose not shield him from scrutiny under allegations tied to public trust institutions like Central universities. Faculty complaints about authoritarian tactics further underscore broader struggles around administrative clarity.

From a broader viewpoint for India’s academic institutions like TISS-celebrated for their contributions to social sciences-this incident spotlights challenges linked with leadership probity amidst growing expectations for operational integrity across higher education sectors nationwide.