The Tripura High Court has dismissed Tripura University’s objection to a writ petition challenging the appointment of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ganga Prasad Prasain’s son, Lalit Prasain, as Co-Architect (Civil).
In an order issued on Monday, Justice S. D. Purkayastha ruled that the writ petition, filed by Rangkchak Tripura—a candidate who also took part in the recruitment process—was maintainable. The petitioner alleged that the selection process was manipulated to favor Lalit Prasain, raising serious questions of nepotism and irregularities.
Vacancy Notification and Eligibility Changes
The dispute began in 2024 when Tripura University advertised the post of Co-Architect (Civil). The original eligibility criteria required:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, and
- Three years of experience as a Junior Engineer in the state Public Works Department (PWD) or equivalent positions in statutory or autonomous bodies, universities, or private organizations with an annual turnover of at least ₹200 crore.
However, midway through the recruitment process, the university issued a revised notification. The turnover requirement was replaced with a broader clause—three years’ experience in any private organization.
According to the petitioner, this sudden change in criteria was not a routine update but a deliberate move to make Lalit Prasain eligible for the position.
Arguments in Court
Representing Tripura University, senior advocate B. P. Sahu argued that a candidate who participates in a recruitment process cannot later challenge it. He stressed that by taking part in the selection, the petitioner had accepted its terms.
However, senior advocate Purushottom Ray Barman, appearing for the petitioner, countered that changes made midway in the eligibility criteria were aimed solely at benefiting the Vice-Chancellor’s son. He further alleged that the recruitment lacked transparency and violated principles of fairness.
Court’s Observations
The High Court rejected the university’s contention, stating that participation in a recruitment process does not bar a candidate from later challenging it—especially if there is evidence of bias, favoritism, or corruption. Justice Purkayastha observed that the allegations warranted judicial review and that the matter could not be dismissed solely on the grounds of participation.
Resignation After Verdict
Soon after the verdict, Lalit Prasain resigned from the post of Co-Architect (Civil). Tripura University accepted his resignation immediately.
While no official explanation was given for the resignation, several university staff, students, and faculty members believe it was a strategic move to prevent further embarrassment for the Vice-Chancellor following the court’s ruling.
The case has sparked debate in academic and political circles over transparency in university recruitments. Critics argue that such incidents undermine public trust in higher education institutions and stress the need for stricter safeguards against nepotism.
The matter will now proceed for a detailed hearing on the alleged irregularities in the recruitment process.