Hindu College staff body seeks DU takeover, independent probe into alleged irregularities

The Hindu College Staff Association has urged Delhi University to take over Hindu College and order an independent, time-bound inquiry into alleged irregularities spanning admissions, finances, procurement, appointments, governance and student welfare.

In a memorandum submitted to the DU Vice Chancellor, the association alleged violations of university rules and ordinances, bypassing of the Staff Council, financial and procurement lapses, non-disclosure of key audit records and irregularities in appointments and fixed-tenure positions.

The staff body has also sought action against those found responsible and called for strict compliance with DU statutes, ordinances, the General Financial Rules and other university directives.

Admissions under scrutiny

The association alleged that supernumerary admissions were made despite objections raised by concerned teachers-in-charge and committee convenors.

It claimed that the prescribed 20% ceiling and applicable DU ordinances were not followed. The association further alleged that a subsequent staff meeting was presented as a Staff Council meeting even though it had not been convened or attended by the elected Staff Council secretary.

Staff Council powers questioned

The memorandum alleged that the statutory authority of the Staff Council had been bypassed and that parallel committees were constituted in its place.

The association demanded restoration of the council's authority and regular meetings. It also raised concerns over alleged delays or denial of study leave, child care leave, sabbatical leave and promotions, besides issues surrounding inquiry reports and exoneration orders.

Financial and procurement concerns

The staff body alleged misuse of college premises and resources for private commercial activities and questioned aspects of governing body membership and the use of college endowment funds towards contributions to the Hindu Education Trust.

It also flagged alleged violations of financial and vigilance norms in hostel mess tenders, along with the prolonged outsourcing of security and sanitation services without open tendering.

The association sought disclosure of governing body minutes, audited accounts, CAG reports, tenders, contracts, fee structures and scholarship guidelines, subject to applicable confidentiality requirements.

Student welfare and appointments flagged

The memorandum raised concerns over annual fee increases, grievance redressal mechanisms and the alleged lack of transparency in awarding scholarships and fellowships.

On appointments, the association questioned the continuation of the vice-principal and other fixed-tenure office holders beyond their prescribed terms. It also raised concerns over vacant administrative posts allegedly not being advertised.

Fire incidents and structural defects

The staff body called for an inquiry into repeated fire incidents and alleged structural defects and seepage in newly constructed buildings.

It also sought transparent appointments of wardens and other office holders, along with accountability wherever violations are established.

Staff body seeks change in college governance

Among its key demands, the association sought the removal of the Hindu College Governing Body chairman and principal to facilitate what it described as an impartial inquiry.

It also urged Delhi University to take over Hindu College and constitute an extended Governing Body on an interim basis, arguing that this would free the institution from the control of its Trust and Governing Body.

The association said the proposed arrangement was intended to prevent what it described as any further attempt at privatisation.

The memorandum was signed by Ratan Lal, president, and Shankar Kumar, secretary, of the Hindu College Staff Association.