Rabindranath Tagore University Official Suspended Over Alleged Fake Degree
In a significant development at Rabindranath Tagore University in Hojai, Assam, the Deputy Registrar, Shekhar Kanti Sarkar, has been suspended from his post and service with immediate effect. This action stems from serious allegations that he submitted a fake academic degree to secure and maintain his position.
The Allegations and Suspension
According to official sources, Sarkar was initially served with a show-cause notice regarding claims that he occupied the deputy registrar role using fraudulent academic credentials. Despite the notice, Sarkar reportedly failed to provide a satisfactory response within the stipulated timeframe. As a result, the university authorities proceeded with the suspension, pending further proceedings.
The vice chancellor, Manabendra Dutta Choudhury, has publicly clarified the institution’s position, emphasizing a strict approach to handling such allegations. He noted that details regarding the alleged fake educational qualification certificates were even posted on the university’s official website. A notice was issued online by the relevant committee, highlighting the seriousness with which the matter is being treated.
But the issues don’t stop at academic fraud. Sarkar has also faced accusations of financial irregularities during his tenure. University sources revealed that the management committee convened multiple meetings to deliberate on these claims. Discussions took place as recently as last month, with minutes of those meetings updated on the university’s website, as confirmed by the vice chancellor.
Following a recent meeting conducted in line with established rules and procedures, the authorities meticulously examined all relevant documents before deciding to take action. The vice chancellor stressed that the decision was made after careful scrutiny of records and in full compliance with institutional norms. He further reiterated the university’s dedication to safeguarding its interests and maintaining its dignity as a premier higher educational institution. “Any decision taken will be in the interest of the university and with full adherence to due process,” he told media representatives.
University officials have indicated that necessary procedures will be followed to verify the authenticity of the academic documents and investigate the alleged financial irregularities. As of now, no official statement or reaction has been received from Shekhar Kanti Sarkar regarding the allegations or the suspension order.
Previous Controversies: The Recruitment Scam
This is not the first time Rabindranath Tagore University has been embroiled in controversy. A previous report highlighted a shocking recruitment scam during the hiring process for the Assistant Librarian post. No applications were screened publicly, no lists of selected or rejected candidates were published, and no reasons for rejections were provided on the official website.
Only 9-10 candidates were secretly shortlisted from over 50-80 applicants, with the interview conducted on February 25, 2025, at IIT Guwahati without any prior public announcement. Some candidates received notifications less than 24 hours in advance, and as of late March 2025, no official results were declared. Alarmingly, a fresh candidate with minimal experience was selected over more qualified applicants, fueling suspicions of rigging and foul play.
Adding to concerns about transparency, the university has faced criticism for failing to respond to Right to Information (RTI) request RTIASM/R/2025/10792 (Dated 19/04/2025) and first appeals RTIASM/A/2025/10162 (Dated 19/05/2025) related to such matters, with cases escalating to the information commission. An institution unable to address RTI queries effectively raises serious questions about the management’s credibility and commitment to meritocracy.
Conclusion
The suspension of Shekhar Kanti Sarkar amid these grave allegations, combined with past issues like the recruitment scam, paints a troubling picture of potential systemic lapses at Rabindranath Tagore University. As investigations proceed, stakeholders hope for swift and fair resolutions to restore faith in the institution. In an era where academic integrity is paramount, such events serve as a reminder of the need for robust oversight and unwavering adherence to ethical standards.
