Punjabi University Professor Faces Penalty Over UGC Scholarship Misuse
In a significant disciplinary action, the syndicate of Punjabi University in Patiala has ordered the withholding of one annual increment with cumulative effect against a professor from the Department of Physical Education. This decision follows two separate inquiries that found the faculty member guilty of serious misconduct and financial irregularities linked to the alleged misuse of University Grants Commission (UGC) scholarship funds.
Dual Inquiries Confirm Guilt
The case first came under scrutiny through an internal inquiry conducted by Professor Gurpreet Kaur Pannu from the Department of Law. Her investigation concluded that the professor was indeed guilty of the charges leveled against him. Subsequently, the university commissioned an independent external probe led by retired Justice Jora Singh to ensure impartiality and thorough examination.
Justice Jora Singh's external inquiry reinforced the initial findings, declaring the professor's actions as a "punishable offence." The report specifically cited mala fide intent to defraud the UGC and facilitate the wrongful withdrawal of scholarship funds, highlighting the severity of the violations.
Details of the Scholarship Misuse
The investigation centered on two PhD scholars who were under the supervision of the accused professor. Both scholars were recipients of UGC research scholarships while simultaneously holding full-time government positions—one as an assistant professor in Fatehgarh Sahib and the other as a regular patwari in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar.
The inquiry report presented a compelling argument, stating it was "physically impossible" for these scholars to maintain the required attendance at Punjabi University while fulfilling their official duties at their respective government posts. Despite this impossibility, attendance records authenticated by the professor were submitted, which were later deemed falsified. This fraudulent documentation allowed for the continued disbursal of scholarship funds to the ineligible scholars.
University Leadership and Response
Attempts to reach Vice-Chancellor Jagdeep Singh for comments on the matter were unsuccessful, despite repeated efforts. The university's administration has remained tight-lipped, allowing the syndicate's decision to speak for the institution's stance on academic integrity and financial accountability.
Professor's Defense and Allegations
The professor, who is currently contesting the presidential election of the Punjab University Teachers Association (PUTA), has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. He described the disciplinary action as politically motivated, aimed at tarnishing his reputation ahead of the PUTA elections.
In his defense, the professor stated, "This is a matter from 2016 that was resolved years ago after an internal inquiry by Dr. Pannu. The students admitted their lapse in not informing the department about their outside engagement and returned approximately Rs 3.2 lakh directly to the UGC. The university did not suffer any financial loss. As head of the department, I merely forwarded their recommendation forms."
He further alleged personal enmity as the driving force behind the reopening of the case through a one-man inquiry. "It is not possible for a teacher to monitor a student round-the-clock. We followed due procedure regarding attendance. The scholars are continuing their PhDs, which itself disproves allegations of a 'scam'. We have not yet received the official orders, but once we do, we are prepared to challenge the decision in court," he added, signaling potential legal action against the university's decision.
Broader Implications
This case raises important questions about the oversight mechanisms within higher education institutions regarding scholarship disbursements and faculty responsibilities. The involvement of UGC funds adds a layer of national significance, as these scholarships are intended to support genuine research and academic pursuits.
The professor's role in authenticating falsified attendance records underscores the critical need for stringent verification processes and ethical conduct among academic supervisors. As the professor prepares to contest the syndicate's decision legally, the outcome could set a precedent for how similar cases of alleged misconduct are handled in Indian universities.
For now, the syndicate's ruling stands as a firm message from Punjabi University about its commitment to upholding academic standards and financial propriety, even as the accused professor fights to clear his name in what he claims is a politically charged environment.
