Hyderabad: Prof. L.B. Laxmikanth Rathod, Principal, OU College of Physical Education, was reported missing on Monday. His family said he was depressed at not being chosen convener for the physical education CET. He felt discriminated against because he belonged to the ST community, his family said.
Dr K. Deepla, the professor’s relative who works in the same department, said Prof. Rathod had not returned home on Saturday night. OU Teachers Association president Battu Satyanara-yana said Prof. Rathod had brought the issue to the notice of the association. “Being the most seniormost faculty in the department, Prof. Rathod thought he would be the first choice for convener., he said.
A message purportedly sent by Prof. Rathod stated he was facing the same discrimination as Rohith Vemula, and the universtiy Vice-Chancellor and the State Council for Higher Education chairman would be responsible if he takes any extreme step. Higher education officials said the appointment was done two-and-a-half years ago.
