Karnataka Governor seeks action against KSHEC Vice-Chairman over fund misuse

Karnataka Governor and Chancellor Thaawarchand Gehlot has written to Higher Education Minister Basavaraj Rayaraddi, directing him to take appropriate action against S.R. Niranjana, Vice-Chairman of the Karnataka State Higher Education Council (KSHEC), over alleged financial irregularities and misuse of public funds.

In his communication, the Governor noted that supporting documents submitted with a representation indicate that many bills claimed for reimbursement from council funds do not appear to comply with established rules. He emphasised that KSHEC is meant to be a collective body of the government, universities, academics, and experts, and that having tainted individuals in high positions could erode trust among academicians, teachers, and students.

The Governor urged the Minister to look into the matter personally and take necessary action at the earliest, stressing that financial irregularities must be viewed seriously to safeguard higher education institutions against misuse of public funds.

According to documents submitted by a complainant to Lok Bhavan, Prof. Niranjana allegedly claimed reimbursements from KSHEC funds for personal expenses and private entertainment. Copies of bills obtained under the Right to Information Act reportedly include refreshment bills from a Bengaluru club that were reimbursed by the council. Some bills attached to the complaint show refreshment reimbursements in June and July 2024 totalling ₹34,350, including one from a supermarket.