Hyderabad: Osmania University has refuted the claim of former director, Dairtaul Maarifil Osmania, Prof. Mahjabeen Akhtar that her term was extended by the then vice-chancellor Prof. S. Ramchandram, who retired on July 24. The University has appointed Prof. Talat Sultana as director of the institute. Prof. Mahjabeen retired on July 31 but attended office on August 1 claiming that her services were extended. Officials immediately informed university registrar Dr Ch. Gopal Reddy.
Dairtaul Maarifil Osmania, a premier institute of research and editing of manuscripts, was established in 1888. Sources said that when Dr Reddy enquired with her, Prof. Mahjabeen claimed that Prof. Ramchandram had extended her services. This was turned down by the registrar as such an appointment cannot be legal. He said that Prof. Ramachandram had retired on July 24. How could he issue an order which would come into force after his retirement, he questioned.
University sources said that the matter was placed before the in-charge Vice-Chancellor Arvind Kumar. He instructed the registrar not to allow Prof. Mahjabeen to continue and launch an inquiry. He appointed Prof. Talat Sultana as director of the Dairtaul Maarifil Osmania, and she took charge on Friday. Asked about the controversy, Dr Reddy said that if Prof. Mahjabeen persisted with her stand, the university will take action against her. The term of Prof. Mahjabeen was marked by controversy. She had removed several employees and this led to court cases.
She also faces a contempt of court case.
