Row over selection of honorary doctorates at MU

Mangaluru: As Mangalore University (MU) prepares for its 44th Annual Convocation, the process of selecting recipients for honorary doctorates (honoris causa) has come under renewed scrutiny, with syndicate members alleging that statutory procedure was bypassed.MU forwarded 14 names to the governor of Karnataka, who serves as chancellor of the university, for consideration for honorary doctorates. Syndicate members said the move followed directives from the chancellor's office, but argued that it deviated from the procedure laid down in the university statutes and the Karnataka University Act, 2000.
A syndicate member alleged that the body was not allowed to exercise its role in screening and shortlisting candidates. "In the recent meeting, we were directed to forward all 14 names to the governor. As per the rule book, the syndicate scrutinises applications and recommends three names to the governor for consideration," the member said.The issue has gained prominence as MU has faced criticism in recent years for conferring honorary doctorates on affluent businessmen rather than individuals recognised for exceptional contributions in various fields. Critics have cited Section 69 of the Karnataka University Act, 2000, which lays down eligibility criteria and limits honorary degrees to persons with distinguished contributions in specified fields.Vice-chancellor PL Dharma had earlier maintained that the university would ensure transparency in the selection process and adhere to statutory provisions.According to syndicate members, all 14 proposals were placed before the syndicate at a recent meeting. While the syndicate resolved to forward the names in compliance with the directive received, it also recorded that the standard procedure requires the syndicate to scrutinise applications and formally recommend three achievers from different fields.Another member said the list included businessmen, scientists and other personalities, but alleged there was no detailed discussion on merit-based selection. The member added that the syndicate had suggested the name of Padma Shri awardee Harekala Hajabba, known for his contributions to education and social service, but the proposal was not taken up."It is disheartening that the syndicate and the vice-chancellor had no effective say in the selection, despite having the authority," a member said, warning that any controversial choice could embarrass the university.MU had received 11 applications for honorary doctorates during the last convocation. VC PL Dharma was unavailable for comment.