Garba deal backfires: VNSGU withdraws 62.5L lease amid uproar
The ground was rented for Rs 62.5 lakh without issuing a public tender or following due govt procedures. The leasing process was carried out quietly, with no prior announcement regarding the university's new standard operating procedure (SOP) for renting out the ground. The university informed about the lease resolution only last month, and Yashwi Entertainment promptly paid the full amount.
The move sparked controversy over the low rental value and procedural lapses, leading to allegations of corruption.
The VNSGU campus was placed under tight security on Wednesday after Congress and NSUI lodged complaints and announced protests. Amid growing pressure and a heavy police presence, the vice-chancellor cancelled the lease.
The decision was also reportedly influenced by potential legal consequences. The land was originally acquired from a farmer strictly for educational purposes. Following complaints to the collector's office and the higher education department, the VC received a reprimand and was instructed to cancel the deal immediately.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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When asked how only one company was aware of the SOP, Chavda told TOI: "We followed due process to frame rules in the executive council and board of management. After the SOP was made, Yashwi Entertainment somehow came to know about it and approached us."
The university had cited the lease as a revenue source to meet salary and operational expenses. However, questions were raised about its spending priorities, as VNSGU has reportedly spent lakhs on non-academic festivals over the years.
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