Gujarat University orders probe by retired judge into ex-VC Neerja Gupta

Gujarat University has appointed retired High Court judge DM Vyas to examine allegations against former vice-chancellor Neerja Gupta. The inquiry could shape legal and disciplinary action over appointments, funding use and alleged financial losses.Gujarat University's ex-VC Neerja GuptaGujarat University on Saturday set up a single-member inquiry committee, headed by retired High Court judge DM Vyas, to examine allegations of financial and administrative irregularities during the tenure of former Vice-Chancellor Dr Neerja Gupta.In-charge Vice-Chancellor Jagdish Joshi said the panel will look into complaints related to irregular appointments, financial misconduct, embezzlement of funds, and the alleged misuse of authority to benefit acquaintances. He said discussions had been held with Justice Vyas and the inquiry is expected to begin next week.Addressing a press conference, Joshi said, "When a retired High Court judge conducts an inquiry, further actions will be taken based on the recommendations made after their investigation."He added that such matters often reach the High Court eventually, and the university had therefore decided to appoint a retired judge in advance so that all aspects are covered. The move comes amid allegations by student organisations, including the National Students' Union of India and the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad.They have accused Dr Gupta of financial misconduct, misuse of a Central grant, and causing financial loss to the university by appointing temporary employees on excessively high salaries. Referring to explanations made publicly on social media by the accused, Joshi said the university had not received any formal written communication from them or their representatives."If an individual makes a post on their social media, that is their independent right and freedom," he said. Joshi added that the university had sent the initial reports to legal counsel and that the next steps would be communicated after legal advice is received.Earlier this month, the university suspended 10 temporary employees, including the Group CEO of the Gujarat University Startup and Entrepreneurship Council and the CEO of the Institute of Defence Studies and Research Foundation, after an initial report by a three-member fact-finding committee.The ABVP had alleged that Gupta appointed them and paid them excessively high salaries, leading to financial loss for the university. Joshi had then said complaints suggested due procedure was not followed in these appointments.On the earlier suspensions, Joshi said, "The individuals were suspended specifically to ensure a transparent investigation and to prevent any tampering with documents."He said the university had taken all precautions to secure evidence and that no documents had been altered. He added that further action would be taken after the final findings of Justice Vyas's higher-level committee, which will now examine the wider allegations against the former vice-chancellor.- EndsPublished By: India Today Web Desk Published On: Aug 29, 2026 21:19 IST