Ajit Ranade has resigned as the vice-chancellor of GIPE, Pune, after a lengthy two-month impasse and reinstatement, citing personal reasons amidst ongoing controversies surrounding his appointment. Ranade clarified in his resignation letter that his decision to resign does not imply any acceptance of any defects or ineligibility in his appointment as Vice-Chancellor in October 2021.
The chancellor of GIPE, Sanjeev Sanyal, had reinstated Ranade as the V-C on October 21 after a period of uncertainty. However, Ranade’s resignation last week was accepted by Sanyal, who also informed the UGC about the decision. Discussions regarding interim arrangements for the position of V-C are underway, with a management board meeting scheduled for November 8.
The controversy surrounding Ranade’s appointment has had a significant impact on the 90-year legacy of GIPE, according to Milind Deshmukh, a trustee of the Servants of India Society. The interim charge of V-C will be given to a senior professor at the institute until a permanent appointment is made.
Ranade’s appointment and subsequent removal by the former chancellor Bibek Debroy in September, based on a fact-finding committee report, have been at the center of the controversy. The FFC report highlighted irregularities in Ranade’s appointment, including his lack of experience as a professor for the required 10 years, as per UGC guidelines.
The recent enquiry committee report led by Prof Shantishree Pandit further questioned Ranade’s eligibility and raised concerns about ethics and conflicts of interest in his selection as V-C. During Ranade’s tenure, student fees increased significantly, while placement opportunities declined, leading to frustration among faculty and students over the work culture at GIPE.
This resignation sheds light on the critical issues surrounding the management and leadership of educational institutions. Stakeholders emphasize the importance of transparent and merit-based processes that prioritize the well-being of students, faculty, and the long-term reputation of the institute. The developments at GIPE serve as a reminder of the significance of upholding due process and ethical standards in academic leadership.
