The appointment of government officials as in-charge vice-chancellors for the third time at Osmania University in Telangana has raised concerns about the shrinking autonomy of universities. Despite recommendations and concerns expressed by academics, the practice of appointing IAS officials as in-charge V-Cs has been ongoing since the time of united Andhra Pradesh.
A senior professor from a state university stated that significant changes have been made to higher education laws in other states, but Telugu states continue with the age-old practice. In contrast, Maharashtra has made changes to ensure state universities have functional autonomy, including personal interviews with the Chancellor for V-C aspirants.
Osmania University professors have noted that Maharashtra’s Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University has a Pro-Vice-Chancellor position, which helps divide work and ensure academic leadership during V-C appointment delays. This approach demonstrates the state government’s commitment to protecting university autonomy.
