THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, Jan 3: The National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) has sent a letter to Governor-cum-Chancellor Santosh Gangwar, demanding action against Nirmala College Principal, Sister Jyoti Kispotta.
In the letter, NSUI Secretary Rohit Pandey stated that he had informed the Governor’s office on June 19, 2024, about alleged irregularities in Sister Jyoti’s appointment and called for action. “Six months have passed, and the issue remains unresolved,” Pandey said, warning of protests if the matter is suppressed through misuse of money or power.
The controversy stems from an official inquiry by Ranchi University, which deemed Sister Jyoti ineligible for the principal’s position. However, she continues to hold the role, despite the findings.
Sister Jyoti was appointed principal on May 29, 2014, just a day after the passing of her predecessor, Sister Priscilla.
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NSUI’s Complaint
Rohit Pandey’s complaint highlights that Sister Jyoti’s appointment violated the Jharkhand State Universities Act.
Nirmala College, Ranchi, affiliated with Ranchi University, is a Christian minority institution managed by the Society of Sisters of Charity of Jesus and Mary, which oversees the college through its Governing Body.
According to the Act, candidates for the principal’s post must have at least 10 years of teaching experience as a lecturer or assistant professor. However, Pandey pointed out that Sister Jyoti had only six and a half years of teaching experience when she was appointed.
Specifically:
- Sister Jyoti became an assistant professor on December 1, 2007, based on her PhD, which she earned on October 5, 2007.
- By May 29, 2014, she had just six years and six months of teaching experience—falling short of the required 10 years.
Pandey also alleged that the proper recruitment process was not followed:
- The principal’s position was neither advertised nor were interviews conducted, as mandated by the University Act.
- Questions were raised about the approvals given by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Ranchi University for her appointment.
He further criticised the Higher and Technical Education Department for issuing a notification that placed Sister Jyoti in the professor’s salary scale (Level 14) despite her lack of eligibility.
The notification, issued on December 15, 2022, confirmed that Sister Jyoti received her PhD on October 5, 2007. Yet, she was promoted to Level 14, bypassing the required qualifications and procedures.
Governor’s Office and Ranchi University’s Inquiry
After receiving Pandey’s complaint, the Governor’s office referred the matter to Ranchi University (RU), directing it to investigate and take legal action.
Ranchi University Registrar Binod Narayan confirmed that the inquiry report was submitted to the Governor’s office about two months ago, and the university is now awaiting further instructions.
The inquiry concluded that Sister Jyoti’s appointment was illegal. “She did not meet the mandatory 10 years of teaching experience and was appointed without following the proper recruitment process,” Narayan said.
Despite these findings, no action has been taken yet, prompting NSUI’s warning of protests.
