Controversial Former Tripura University VC Professor Ganga Prasad Prasain Loses Charge of Manipur University Amid Legal Battle
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, May 31, 2026
Professor Ganga Prasad Prasain, the controversial former Vice-Chancellor of Tripura University, has suffered a major setback after the High Court of Manipur stayed his appointment as Vice-Chancellor (In-Charge) of Manipur University and restored the charge to the senior-most professor of the institution.
The development comes amid growing criticism surrounding Prof. Prasain's academic and administrative record during his tenure at Tripura University. Faculty members and academic circles had repeatedly alleged that his administration was marked by irregular appointments, questionable promotions, and violations of established university norms. Critics have claimed that deserving teachers and officers were denied promotions while favoritism and arbitrary decisions dominated the university's functioning.
Prof. Prasain's tenure at Tripura University itself became the subject of controversy when questions were raised regarding his continuation in office after attaining the age of 65 years. According to the provisions of the Tripura University Act, 2006, and norms governing Central Universities, a Vice-Chancellor cannot continue beyond the age of 65 years or five years in office, whichever is earlier. Despite attaining the age limit on August 16, 2025, efforts were reportedly made through administrative notifications to justify his continuation, triggering widespread objections from faculty members and academic observers.
The latest controversy emerged in Manipur University after the retirement of the previous Vice-Chancellor. The senior-most professor, Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam, was initially assigned charge as Vice-Chancellor (In-Charge) in accordance with the provisions of the Manipur University Act. However, she was subsequently replaced by Prof. Ganga Prasad Prasain through orders issued by the Ministry of Education and the University administration.
Challenging the decision, petitions were filed before the High Court of Manipur. After hearing the matter, Justice A Guneshwar Sharma observed that the appointment of Prof. Prasain did not appear to be in strict conformity with Statute 2(6) of the Manipur University Act, which provides that the senior-most available professor should discharge the duties of Vice-Chancellor when the post falls vacant.
In its order dated May 29, 2026, the High Court stayed the Ministry's communication and the University order appointing Prof. Prasain as Vice-Chancellor (In-Charge). The Court further permitted Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam, the senior-most professor of the university, to continue as Vice-Chancellor (In-Charge) until the next hearing.
The ruling has reignited debates over transparency, accountability, and adherence to statutory norms in the administration of Central Universities. Academic observers have described the development as a significant challenge to what they allege has been a pattern of administrative irregularities associated with Prof. Prasain's tenure in higher education institutions.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing before the High Court on June 8, 2026.
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