JNU Professor Rajeev Sijariya Suspended in NAAC Bribery Scandal
In a shocking turn of events, jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has suspended Professor rajeev Sijariya following his arrest by the Central Bureau of Inquiry (CBI) in a bribery case linked to the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). The FIR alleges that Sijariya brokered a deal for ₹1.8 crore in exchange for a favourable NAAC report, eventually settling for ₹28 lakh.
The scandal unfolded when the NAAC inspection team reportedly demanded ₹1.8 crore from Andhra Pradesh’s Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation (KLEF) for a positive assessment. After negotiations, the team allegedly agreed to accept ₹10 lakh for the chairman, ₹3 lakh for each member, and additional perks, including a laptop and travel expenses for one member’s wife. Sijariya, who facilitated the deal, initially demanded ₹1.3 crore for himself but later settled for ₹28 lakh.
This is not the first time Sijariya has been embroiled in controversy. In 2023, his two-year tenure as Dean of JNU’s Atal bihari Vajpayee School of management and Entrepreneurship (ABVSME) was cut short after faculty members accused him of “undemocratic decision-making” and “instigating students against faculty members.” His suspension from JNU followed a recommendation by a three-member committee to the vice chancellor.
Sijariya, who joined JNU in 2020 under former vice chancellor M jagadesh Kumar, boasts an remarkable academic background. He holds a PhD in Management with a specialization in Consumer Behavior, an MBA in Marketing and Human Resource Management, and an MSc in physics (Electronics). With over 25 years of professional experience, including 21 years in academia and administrative leadership, his fall from grace has sent shockwaves through the academic community.
The NAAC bribery case highlights the growing concerns about corruption in India’s higher education accreditation system. As the investigation continues, questions remain about the integrity of the process and the accountability of those entrusted with maintaining educational standards.
Key Details of the NAAC Bribery Case
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Accused | rajeev Sijariya, JNU Professor |
| Alleged Demand | ₹1.8 crore for a favourable NAAC report |
| Settlement Amount | ₹28 lakh for Sijariya, ₹10 lakh for chairman, ₹3 lakh per member |
| Additional Perks | Laptop, travel expenses for one member’s wife |
| Previous Controversy | Tenure as Dean of ABVSME cut short in 2023 over allegations of misconduct |
The case serves as a stark reminder of the need for clarity and accountability in educational institutions.As the CBI continues its investigation, the academic community awaits further developments in this high-profile scandal.
JNU Professor Rajeev Sijariya Suspended in NAAC Bribery Scandal: An Expert Analysis
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In a high-profile scandal that has rocked the academic community, JNU Professor Rajeev Sijariya has been suspended following his arrest in connection with a bribery case involving the National assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). To better understand the implications of this case, Senior Editor of world-today-news.com sits down with Dr. Anjali Mehta, a leading expert in higher education governance and ethics.
the Allegations Against Professor Rajeev Sijariya
Senior Editor: Dr. Mehta, could you briefly outline the allegations that have led to Professor Sijariya’s suspension?
dr.Anjali Mehta: Certainly. The FIR filed by the CBI alleges that Professor Sijariya acted as a broker in a deal where ₹1.8 crore was demanded from Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation (KLEF) in exchange for a favorable NAAC report. After negotiations, the settlement amounted to ₹28 lakh for Sijariya, ₹10 lakh for the NAAC chairman, and ₹3 lakh for each team member. Additionally, perks like a laptop and travel expenses for one member’s wife were included.
The Broader Implications for Higher Education Accreditation
Senior Editor: This case has raised concerns about the integrity of the NAAC accreditation process. What does this scandal reveal about the broader system?
Dr.Anjali Mehta: This scandal underscores a systemic issue within the accreditation process. The NAAC is meant to ensure quality in higher education, but such allegations of bribery erode public trust. It highlights the need for stricter oversight, transparency, and accountability in how institutions are evaluated. There must also be mechanisms to prevent undue influence and corruption.
Professor Sijariya’s Academic Background and past Controversies
Senior Editor: professor Sijariya has an impressive academic background, but this isn’t his first controversy. Can you shed light on his past?
Dr. Anjali Mehta: Indeed, Professor Sijariya has over 25 years of experience, including 21 years in academia and leadership roles. However, his tenure as Dean of JNU’s Atal Bihari vajpayee School of Management and Entrepreneurship (ABVSME) was cut short in 2023 due to allegations of misconduct, including undemocratic decision-making and instigating students against faculty. This history suggests a pattern of behavior that raises questions about his suitability for administrative roles.
The Impact on the Academic Community
Senior Editor: How do you think this case will impact the academic community, both at JNU and beyond?
Dr. Anjali Mehta: This case has sent shockwaves through the academic community. It not only damages JNU’s reputation but also raises questions about the integrity of other educational institutions. Students, faculty, and stakeholders are likely to demand greater transparency and ethical governance. It’s a wake-up call for universities and accreditation bodies to reassess their processes and ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future.
The Role of the CBI Investigation
Senior Editor: The CBI is currently investigating this case. What are the potential outcomes,and how crucial is this investigation?
Dr. anjali Mehta: The CBI’s investigation is critical in uncovering the full extent of the scandal. If the allegations are proven, it could lead to significant legal repercussions for the accused, including imprisonment and fines. More importantly, the findings could prompt reforms in the NAAC accreditation process and set a precedent for holding individuals accountable for such misconduct.
Conclusion: Lessons from the Scandal
Senior Editor: As we wrap up, what are the key takeaways from this scandal?
Dr. Anjali Mehta: This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for clarity, accountability, and ethical governance in educational institutions. It highlights the importance of safeguarding the accreditation process from corruption and ensuring that those in positions of power are held to the highest standards.Moving forward, institutions must prioritize transparency and integrity to restore public trust in higher education.
