Manpower audit ordered in Universities

Andhra Pradesh IT and Education Minister Nara Lokesh on Friday levelled serious allegations against the previous YSRCP government, accusing it of turning Andhra University (AU) into a political extension of the ruling party during its tenure. He announced that the State government would conduct a comprehensive manpower audit across all universities to identify irregular appointments made over the past five years.

Speaking during the Question Hour in the State Assembly, Lokesh said the audit would be completed within 30 days and strict action would be taken against ineligible appointees based on the findings. The issue was raised by Visakhapatnam MLAs Velagapudi Ramakrishna Babu, Ganababu, and Vamsikrishna Srinivas, who urged the government to investigate alleged irregularities in Andhra University during the previous administration and sought regularisation of contract and daily-wage employees.

Responding to the members, Lokesh alleged that large-scale recruitments of political activists had taken place in universities under the earlier regime. “Universities were misused for political purposes, and appointments were made indiscriminately. The manpower audit is aimed at identifying these irregularities and restoring institutional integrity,” the minister said. He added that once the audit is completed, the government would hold consultations with the Finance Department before taking a decision on the regularisation of eligible contract and daily-wage staff.

The minister further informed the House that a vigilance inquiry into alleged irregularities involving former Andhra University Vice-Chancellor Prasad Reddy is currently underway. The report is expected within 45 days, after which the government will initiate action against those found responsible. “Accountability will be ensured. Those involved in wrongdoing will face strict consequences,” Lokesh warned.

Criticising the previous administration’s handling of higher education, Lokesh said Andhra University’s reputation had suffered significantly during the past five years. He pointed out that AU, which ranked 29th in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) in 2019, slipped to 76th position by 2023.

According to the minister, the university has already shown improvement after the change in government, moving up to the 41st rank, and the coalition government now aims to bring it into the country’s top ten institutions. Members also urged the government to organise Andhra University’s centenary celebrations on a grand scale. 

Responding positively, Lokesh said he would review preparations during his upcoming visit to Visakhapatnam and hold discussions with the Vice-Chancellor. “We will take suggestions from legislators and ensure that the centenary celebrations reflect the legacy and academic stature of Andhra University,” he assured.