Magadh University Pro-VC Asks for Transfer; Acknowledges Threat to Life

Patna: September 1, 2004

The Chancellor of Bihar universities, Governor M. Rama Jois, on Tuesday, ordered an enquiry into the complaints filed by the pro-vice Chancellor of Magadh University S. S. Tulsiyani who, on Monday, filed an official complaint with the Raj Bhawan claiming his life was under threat by the so-called education mafia of the state.

Mr. Tulsiyani who had earlier submitted a report on more than 50 colleges in Bihar being run illegally under the banner of Magadh University said that he was constantly being threatened by criminals and urged the Governor for a special leave and arrange a transfer for him to a place where he and his family members could be safe.

"Gaya is not a safe place for me any more where I continue to get threats from education mafia. I don't have the luxury of being surrounded with bodyguards and under these conditions, it is not a place where I would like to return", the pro-VC said.

Interestingly, many illegal colleges in Bihar are being run by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leaders with questionable backgrounds. Surendra Prasad Yadav College, named after a former RJD leader accused in a kidnapping case, continues to operate under Magadh University banner in spite of the fact that Magadh University has no connections with it any shape or form.

Magadh University Vice Chancellor Shamshad Hussain has appointed a seven-member investigative committee that is headed by Mr. Tulsiyani. An enquiry into the entire controversy may also be conducted by a sitting judge of Patna High Court, officials say.