Tripura University VC’s Son Steps Down Amid Nepotism Row
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, August 12, 2025
The ongoing administrative turmoil at Tripura University has taken a new twist with the resignation of Lalit Prasain, son of Vice Chancellor Prof. Ganga Prasad Prasain, from his post as Assistant Engineer. His decision comes just days after his appointment triggered widespread allegations of nepotism and calls for an independent probe.
According to university sources, Lalit tendered his resignation following intense criticism from academic circles and growing public pressure. His appointment had drawn scrutiny after reports alleged that he was granted extraordinary leave without completing the mandatory provisional service period an exception rarely accorded to newly recruited staff.
The controversy over Lalit’s appointment has unfolded alongside uncertainty over the Vice Chancellor’s own tenure. Prof. Prasain’s official term is set to expire on August 16, 2025, but insiders claim he has received informal political assurances to remain in office beyond this date. A university notification issued on August 7 by Registrar Dr. Deepak Sharma invited faculty members to a meeting with the VC on August 26 ten days after his term ends without clarifying the official capacity in which he would preside.
Further fuelling discontent are allegations of irregularities in the recruitment of non-teaching staff, with multiple insiders alleging unethical practices in the selection process. Critics argue that Lalit’s appointment, coupled with the broader recruitment controversies, points to a pattern of administrative favoritism that undermines the institution’s credibility.
Supporters of the Vice Chancellor have characterised the resignation as a step to prevent “unnecessary distraction” from university affairs. However, detractors see it as a tactical move to defuse outrage without addressing deeper governance lapses.
With speculation over the VC’s tenure and recruitment disputes still unresolved, stakeholders are calling on the Ministry of Education and the University Grants Commission to intervene and restore confidence in the university’s leadership.
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