Manipur HC stays appointment of Tripura ex-VC as Manipur University in-charge

Imphal/Agartala: Manipur HC has put on hold the appointment of Prof Ganga Prasad Prasain as vice-chancellor (in-charge) of Manipur University, dealing a setback to the former Tripura University VC, whose tenure there was marked by alleged recruitment irregularities, nepotism, and administrative controversies. The court, through an interim order, reinstated Prof Sumitra Phanjoubam, the senior-most professor of the Manipur University, to the position.

This ruling comes amid growing criticism of Prof Prasain’s academic and administrative performance during his time at Tripura University. Faculty members and academic bodies had accused his administration of irregular hiring practices, questionable promotions, and violations of university guidelines. He was also alleged to have overlooked qualified candidates for promotions, allowing favoritism and arbitrary decision-making to prevail over merit.

Prof Prasain’s tenure at Tripura University was contentious, with concerns raised about his continuation beyond the age limit of 65 years. The Tripura University Act, 2006, and Central University regulations stipulate that a VC must vacate office upon reaching 65 years of age or after serving five years, whichever comes first. Although his term was set to end on Aug 16, 2025, attempts to extend his leadership reportedly met with resistance from the academic community.

The controversy at Manipur University began after the retirement of VC Prof L Lokendra Singh earlier this month. Under Statute 2(6) of the Manipur University Act, the senior-most professor is to be appointed as VC (in-charge) when the post falls vacant. Accordingly, Prof Sumitra Phanjoubam assumed charge on May 7.

However, a week later, the ministry of education approved the handing over of charge to Prof Prasain, a senior professor of commerce and former VC of Tripura University.

The move triggered opposition from sections of the university community and led to court proceedings. Petitioners argued that Statute 2(6) clearly requires the senior-most available professor to hold charge when the VC’s office is vacant. Prof Prasain was third in the university seniority list, while Prof Phanjoubam is the senior-most professor.

In its order, Justice A Guneshwar Sharma observed that since Prof Phanjoubam was admittedly the senior-most available professor, the appointment of Prof Prasain as in-charge VC did not appear to comply with Statute 2(6) of the Manipur University Act.

The court subsequently stayed the ministry’s May 14 communication and the university’s order appointing Prof Prasain, allowing Prof Phanjoubam to continue as in-charge VC until the next hearing.

The Manipur University Students’ Union (MUSU) locked the offices of the VC and Registrar on May 14 in protest against Prof Prasain’s appointment, alleging that it violated provisions of the Manipur University Act.