CM: Will find solution to varsity’s financial crisis

Tribune News Service

Patiala, October 25

Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh today flayed the previous SAD-BJP regime over “recruitments” at Punjabi University leading to financial crisis.

He said the government would find solution to the issue. “The government has already formed a special committee to suggest measures for improving the university’s situation,” he added.

As per the university’s July data, the appointment of 3,344 non-teaching staff, 935 teaching staff and 321 daily wagers was questioned by the Finance Minister in a meeting. He also directed the university to carry out a man-power audit.

Meanwhile, the university’s salary budget increased from Rs199 crore in 2015-16 to a whopping Rs425 crore in 2019-20. However, its income dropped from Rs274 crore to Rs218 crore during the same period. The university is to pay Rs150 crore pending bank draft-cum-interests.

On steps being taken in this regard, the Chief Minister said the department concerned was looking into the matter.

Viswajeet Khanna, Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue, who is leading the three-member committee that includes Rahul Bhandari, Secretary, Department of Higher Education, and the University Vice-Chancellor, said a report would soon be finalised. “We will hold another meeting on Thursday. Though a report was to be submitted in a month, it has got delayed due to Covid-19 and the university’s schedule of admissions,” he added.