Daijiworld Media Network - Ballari (SP)

Ballari, Sep 15: Remark about exchange of suitcases made by vice chancellor of Kannada University, Hampi in the district, Dr Mallika Ghanti, in her presidential address at the silver jubilee function of the university gave rise to controversy. On account of controversy created on this issue, she said in a written clarification that she did not say so.

A symposium on 'Kannada University of future' on the occasion of silver jubilee celebrations of the university was organized at the university campus on Wednesday September 13. The retired vice chancellor of the university, who took part in the programme, had spoken before Dr Ghanti, narrating how he was managing things when in office. Dr Mallika Ghanti referred to this issue in her address, when perhaps there was slip of the tongue.

"There is talk about developing the university on the model of Oxford University. But we do not have enough teaching staff. Chief minister, Siddaramaiah, keeps promising that the government is prepared to make appointments to the extent that is immediately necessary and that he would release grants for the same. But we know these assurances cannot be relied upon. In the past, it is said that the vice chancellors used to carry suitcase full of files when meeting ministers, get all of them cleared, and were able to bring with them suitcase full of money (grant). But the situation has changed now. Now the situation is like I have to carry cash in suitcase and get things done after distributing money to the concerned," she had said.

However, after her statement spread in the media and evoked controversy, Dr Ghanti realized its seriousness and clarified that she never said so. She said that her statement has been twisted to mean as if she had said she had to carry suitcase to Vidhan Soudha for getting the grants relelased.