By Vishwapati
Patna: A major case of securing lecturer positions using fake certificates has come to light in Bihar. In response, the Education Department has initiated an investigation into the experience, disability, and other credentials of assistant professors appointed in universities. Both the Education Department and the Bihar State University Service Commission have issued formal letters to the Vice-Chancellors of all universities, instructing them to conduct thorough verifications.
Authorities have been directed to carry out the investigation with utmost seriousness. Legal action will be taken against assistant professors found to have secured their positions using fraudulent certificates. Upon receiving investigation recommendations, those found guilty of using fake documents may be dismissed from their roles.
In a letter addressed to universities, Education Department Secretary Baidyanath Yadav explicitly stated that all relevant records, including experience and disability certificates, must be thoroughly examined. The department has received reports indicating that several individuals have secured university positions using falsified certificates.
The letter also mentioned that the commission has recommended appointments for assistant professor posts in 37 subjects. Recommendations for 36 subjects have already been forwarded from the department to the respective universities, with the appointment process now completed in these cases.
Universities, including Patna University (PU), Patliputra University (PPU), and Maulana Mazharul Haq Arabic and Persian University, have received the directive and have commenced action accordingly.
Patliputra University Registrar, Professor NK Jha, said that approximately 200 new assistant professors have been appointed. The university has received the letter regarding the verification of their certificates and has initiated the process. Dedicated teams will be formed to carry out the investigation, adhering strictly to the Education Department’s directives.
Various irregularities have surfaced in university lecturer appointments, with candidates reportedly misusing experience and disability certificates. Several cases of fraudulent appointments have already been detected.
During an ongoing investigation at BN Mandal University, multiple candidates have been found using fake credentials. The commission is gradually receiving reports on these cases. Notably, experience certificates significantly influence recruitment, with candidates awarded two marks for each year of experience. Many applicants have submitted experience certificates claiming two to four years of service.
The Education Department’s crackdown aims to uphold transparency and integrity in academic appointments, ensuring that only qualified candidates hold university teaching positions.
- The author, Vishwapati, is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com
