VISAKHAPATNAM: A controversy seems to be brewing around Andhra University with two warring factions making allegations and counter-allegations over the last several weeks. Meanwhile one group, which is supported by the opposition parties, has given a call for ‘Chalo Andhra University’ on March 3, alleging irregularities on the part of the university officials.
A section of professors and university officials, who represent the other group, claims that some anti-social elements are trying to malign the image of the university. The supporters of the university are going to conduct a roundtable meeting on ‘University progress and social justice’ on March 1. Interestingly, both parties released posters of their respective events on Saturday.
The opposing group recently held a roundtable meeting in Visakhapatnam in which prominent leaders of various opposition parties participated. The meeting that was held under the banner of ‘SC, ST, BC and minority alumni association’ alleged that the university officials converted the campus into a political landscape and injustice is being served to the faculty and staff belonging to the oppressed sections. The meeting witnessed the participation of former Amalapuram MP GV Harsha Kumar, former TDP minister Bandaru Satyanarayana, Jana Sena state secretary T Siva Shankar, etc.
Releasing the posters of ‘Chalo AU’ on Saturday, TDP leader Palla Srinivas alleged that Andhra University vice-chancellor Prof PVGD Reddy has become a stain on the reputation of this prestigious university. “Andhra University has become a political hotspot due to his actions and decisions,” he said.
Dean, Andhra University, Prof T Sharon Raju said they will obstruct the ‘Chalo AU’ programme. “As the vice-chancellor, Prof Reddy is acting tough against the anti-social elements, a few people are trying to tarnish the image of the university with the help of the opposition parties,” said Prof Raju.
Director, AU UGC Human Resources Development Centre, Prof NAD Pal said Andhra University has taken up several developmental initiatives in the last few years.
