The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) raised serious concerns about irregularities at Sikkim University, questioning the appointment of an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Vice-Chancellor and the delay in completing the University’s permanent campus.
BJP Delegation Visits University Amid Governance Concerns
On December 10, a BJP team visited the University’s 6th Mile campus in Tadong to meet officials and demand clarification.
The delegation included Sangay Gyatso Bhutia (BJP Sikkim spokesperson), State Secretary Sangay Pulger, ST Morcha President Karma Sonam Bhutia, and Gangtok Mandal President Rajen Tamang.
The visit followed objections from the Sikkim University Student Association (SUSA) and Sikkim University Non-Teaching Staff Association (SUNTSA), who questioned the credibility of the newly appointed OSD.
BJP Flags Nepotism and Recruitment Issues
The BJP raised concerns of nepotism, noting that both the Vice-Chancellor and OSD come from the same state and region.
The party argued that the timing and eligibility criteria seemed tailored for a single candidate, casting doubt on the recruitment process.
Questions Raised by BJP
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Why did the University create an OSD post when critical positions like Finance Officer and Registrar remain vacant?
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Did the University perform proper background verification before appointing the OSD?
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Did the recruitment follow established rules without exceptions?
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Why was the OSD appointed despite allegations of financial misconduct at Tezpur University?
Both SUSA and SUNTSA also raised concerns about the OSD’s previous record.
Delay in Permanent Campus Completion
The BJP also highlighted the prolonged delay in shifting to the permanent campus at Yangang in Namchi district, a demand long awaited by students.
Students have faced:
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Academic disruption
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Hostel and transport issues
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Uncertainty about the campus relocation
The University stated that it plans to complete the permanent campus by March 2026, after which the relocation process will start.
BJP Reaffirms Commitment to Students
BJP spokesperson Sangay Gyatso Bhutia emphasized the party’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and student welfare, promising to monitor the situation closely.
“The youth of Sikkim deserve a fair system and a fully functional permanent campus,” he said.
