Patna: The Chancellor’s Secretariat has tightened its grip on Aryabhatta Knowledge University (AKU), restricting vice-chancellor Sharad Kumar Yadav from taking policy or major financial decisions and leaving headquarters without prior approval. The sweeping directives, issued on Tuesday amid a growing controversy over the university’s functioning, are effective immediately and will remain in force until further orders.In a letter addressed to the VC and issued with the chancellor’s approval, Deepak Kumar Singh principal secretary to the governor directed Yadav not to take any policy decision without the chancellor’s prior approval. The VC has also been barred from taking financial decisions or granting approvals, except for routine administrative expenditure, without prior clearance. The third directive requires the VC to obtain the chancellor’s permission before leaving headquarters.The restrictions come against the backdrop of mounting tensions over an inquiry committee constituted to examine affairs at the AKU. University employees staged a protest on Monday, questioning the committee’s mandate, jurisdiction and inquiry period. They also demanded the resignation of Pawan Kumar Sinha, special secretary in the state higher education department and the committee’s coordinator.The employees alleged that the committee, constituted on July 27, was authorised to complete its inquiry within 15 days but it visited the university on Sept 12, raising questions about the continuation of its proceedings. They maintained that they were not opposed to an inquiry but wanted it conducted within its prescribed mandate and with due respect for the dignity of university officials and employees.The controversy escalated after registrar Niranjan Prasad alleged that Sinha used objectionable and threatening language during the committee’s visit, including a purported threat to break his hand. The university administration has sought action against Sinha, while the VC has reportedly approached the chief minister and chief secretary for intervention.The allegations have not been independently verified, and Sinha’s response is unavailable. The chancellor’s latest order now places AKU’s policy, financial and administrative leadership under close scrutiny, intensifying the crisis at the university.
