Power sharing pact also applies to varsity posts, says H D Deve Gowda

BENGALURU: Janata Dal (Secular) patriarch H D Deve Gowda has intervened to ensure that the power-sharing agreement with Congress extends to appointment of Syndicate and Academic Council members in 17 universities, and thwart a confrontation between former chief minister Siddaramaiah and higher education minister G T Deve Gowda. On Friday, higher education minister Mr G T Deve Gowda told Deccan Chronicle that a decision was taken to accommodate candidates suggested by leaders of Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) for the posts of Syndicate and Academic Council in various varsities.

This issue had taken a political turn after Mr Siddaramaiah wrote to Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy asking him to continue those members appointed during his regime since the appointments were made to ensure social justice. Though the CM kept mum, the higher education minister took Mr Siddaramaiah head-on and defended his action of doing away with members appointed by the previous government.

According to him, rules permit replacement of members appointed to various varsities whenever a new dispensation takes over the reins. Mr Deve Gowda said after the controversy broke out, the former prime minister sought details regarding the row, and gave the green signal for appointment of new members approved by leaders of both parties. "Names of candidates will be sent to Raj Bhavan for approval by Governor Vajubhai Vala," he added.