Rajendra Khimani (extreme right) at the Oct 18 event
Ahmedabad: Gujarat Vidyapith’s Foundation Day event on Oct 18 has sparked debate on campus after the university invited former vice-chancellor Rajendra Khimani, who resigned after a controversial episode, as chief guest.
Vidyapith traditionally held its convocation on Oct 18 to mark Foundation Day. Khimani had served as Vidyapith’s registrar for nearly 15 years before being appointed its vice-chancellor. Because vidyapith had not invited Khimani to its last three convocations after he quit, the move has raised eyebrows.
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In recent years, however, convocations have been scheduled according to the availability of chief guests, prompting the institution to hold separate Foundation Day programmes. Sources said a University Grants Commission (UGC) member on the search committee objected to his appointment, after which the statutory body directed Vidyapith to remove him. His return to the dais is now being seen as a sign of shifting dynamics at the Gandhian institution. This year’s event featured several special activities, but Khimani’s presence dominated the discussion. Khimani later moved court and secured a stay. The administrative situation changed further after governor Acharya Devvrat took over as chancellor of Vidyapith and expressed displeasure over several issues concerning the institution. Khimani eventually stepped down as Vidyapith’s VC and the governor accepted his resignation. However, his invitation to this year’s Foundation Day function has fuelled speculation over changes in the institution’s power structure and administrative alignments. The reasons for inviting him remain unclear. Download the TOI App.