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Time of India

AU ghost faculty: NGO holds stir alleging govt inaction

Chennai: More than a year after Arappor Iyakkam exposed a major scam involving duplicate faculty appointments in Anna University-affiliated colleges, the NGO conducted a symbolic protest on Saturday, criticizing the state govt's alleged inaction and delay in taking punitive measures. Volunteers of the organisation lit candles and observed a moment of silence, condemning the three-member committee formed to probe the scam for failing to release a report or act against those involved. "The committee was set up two days after we exposed the scam, and the govt ordered that a detailed report be submitted within a week. However, even after a year passed, the report was not released, nor was any action taken against those responsible," said Jayaram Venkatesan, convenor, Arappor Iyakkam. The scam involved 353 ghost faculty members who were found employed at the same time in several engineering colleges, affiliated with Anna University , in the academic year 2023–24. According to the NGO, the colleges presented fake or temporary staff during inspections, often paying individuals to pose as faculty. You Can Also Check: Chennai AQI | Weather in Chennai | Bank Holidays in Chennai | Public Holidays in Chennai "The fact that when the committee visited the colleges for inquiry, people were hired to impersonate teachers shows the brazenness of the scam. It's the students who suffer in the end," said M Radhakrishnan, another member of the NGO. The organization also accused the Anna University of shielding errant officials. It also questioned Governor RN Ravi for allegedly blocking an investigation against former vice chancellor R Velraj. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Friendship Day wishes , messages and quotes !