Bangalore University denies discrimination charges by SC/ST faculty

Bengaluru: Bangalore University (BU) has denied allegations of discrimination levelled by the SC/ST Teachers’ Association.

In a statement issued to the media, BU said: "At the university level, wherever appointments are within its control, SC/ST faculty members have been given preference. Out of 30 administrative positions, 22 have been allotted to professors from SC/ST communities.”

Recently, around 67 professors from these communities wrote to the Vice-Chancellor, alleging discrimination and giving a 15-day deadline to address their concerns.

Responding to this, the university released a statement on Friday.

On statutory posts such as Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, Finance Officer, and Registrar (Evaluation), BU clarified: “These appointments are made directly by the government. The university has no role in them. It is unfortunate that these are being viewed as discriminatory.”

Clarifying on faculty deputations, BU stated: “Four faculty members were transferred from other universities with the Governor's approval, considering the shortage of permanent staff. At present, out of 126 teaching staff, 80 belong to the SC/ST communities, accounting for 63.5% of the total faculty.”

On the backlog posts, BU added: “Of the 55 backlog posts identified by the Social Welfare Department, 35 have been filled. The process to fill the rest is underway.”