Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Apr 13: Mangalore University, one of the premier universities of the state, has come under the scanner for allegedly misusing Rs 7 crore granted under the Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA-1) scheme.
The amount was sanctioned for the construction of student hostels. However, during an inspection by a team of experts from the State Higher Education Committee, it was discovered that the funds had not been used for the intended purpose. The team was reportedly shocked to find that the hostel building was not constructed at all.
When questioned, university officials stated that the amount had instead been diverted for the construction of an international students' hostel. However, documents submitted earlier to the higher education department had claimed that two separate hostels were built using the funds.
The matter came up for discussion during a meeting chaired by the principal secretary of the higher education department and attended by the state planning director. Based on the discussions, a notice was issued to the university seeking an explanation. Department sources stated that the explanation provided by the university was not satisfactory.
Senior officials from the department said, "The Higher Education Committee had recommended recovery of the misused funds along with penalties. The new principal secretary has just assumed charge, and the matter will soon be placed before him."
RUSA funding consists of 60 percent from the central government and 40 percent from the state government. Officials clarified that RUSA grants must be used strictly for the purposes they are sanctioned for. RUSA-1 was implemented between 2013 and 2017, and all institutions were directed to submit reports on fund utilization immediately after the project period ended.
Under the scheme, Mangaluru University had been allocated Rs 3.5 crore each for the construction of hostels for boys and girls.
Higher education minister Dr M C Sudhakar said, “An expert team from the higher education committee visited the university and submitted its report. Based on the findings, a notice was issued. Further action will be taken after receiving the investigation report from the university.”
Meanwhile, Mangaluru University vice chancellor Prof P L Dharma informed that the university has ordered an internal inquiry into the fund utilization. "During the recent syndicate meeting, it was decided to initiate an internal investigation. Accordingly, a notice has been issued to the finance officer. The investigation is expected to be completed within 15 days, and the report will be submitted to the government," he stated.