Tripura University VC Ganga Prasad Prasain Attempts to Continue Beyond Retirement Age in Violation of Statutes
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, August 17, 2025
A major controversy has erupted in Tripura University after incumbent Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ganga Prasad Prasain, whose tenure and service came to an end on August 16, 2025, is reportedly attempting to continue in office in violation of the Tripura University statutes and Central government regulations.
As per the Central University norms and the Tripura University Act, 2006, no Vice-Chancellor of a Central University can continue in office after attaining the age of 65 years. The terms of appointment are unambiguous, attaining the age of 65 years or completion of five years, whichever is earlier. Prof. Prasain, having reached the upper age limit on August 16, stands automatically relieved of his duties.
Despite this statutory provision, a notification issued from the office of the Registrar on August 16, 2025 (though circulated a day later), attempted to justify Prof. Prasain’s continuation by partially quoting a clause of the University Statute that allows a Vice-Chancellor to remain until a successor assumes office. However, the clause cited is only applicable within the permissible service period and cannot override the maximum age cap of 65 years fixed under Central University rules.
Legal and academic experts have further pointed out that the Registrar has no authority whatsoever to issue such a notification. The appointing authority of the Vice-Chancellor of a Central University is clearly laid down on page 16 of the Statutes it is the Visitor of the University, i.e., the Honourable President of India. How can a mere Registrar of a University assume the power to appoint or reappoint a Vice-Chancellor of a Central University? This is a clear case of overstepping authority, remarked a senior professor.
Adding to the controversy, Prof. Prasain’s tenure itself has come under sharp criticism. Faculty members allege that he did nothing constructive for the growth of the university except indulging in a series of illegal appointments and promotions. Those who were truly eligible as per rules and norms were denied their due promotions. As per UGC regulations, the process of Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) promotions must be completed within six months of receiving an application, but during the last five years, the administration under Prof. Prasain reportedly failed to process them, while selectively granting illegal promotions and recruitments.
As per Statute 2(6) of the Tripura University Act, in the event of vacancy due to death, resignation, ill health, or completion of term, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor is to take over the duties of the Vice-Chancellor. If the Pro-Vice-Chancellor is not available, the senior-most Professor of the university shall act as Vice-Chancellor until a regular appointment is made by the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
The controversy has sparked pressure within academic circles and among stakeholders, as many allege that Prof. Prasain’s attempt to continue in office is illegal and amounts to misuse of authority. Questions are also being raised about the role of the University administration in issuing a backdated notification on a Sunday, quoting provisions selectively.
With mounting pressure, all eyes are now on the Ministry of Education and the Hon’ble Governor of Tripura, who is the Chief Rector of Tripura University, to intervene and ensure compliance with statutes.
The issue underscores the urgent need for adherence to regulations in Central Universities, where precedents of bending rules could have wider implications for academic governance across India.
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