Gujarat University orders inquiry into waste disposal payment allegations
The university vice-chancellor promised a report within seven days following protests by the student organisation NSUI regarding alleged overpayments.
Gujarat University has ordered an inquiry into allegations that an agency was paid significantly more than standard truck-hire rates for waste disposal on its 350-acre campus, according to Urban Acres.
The student organisation NSUI raised these concerns through a protest and a written representation. NSUI alleged that the university paid ₹8,000 per truck for removing dry and wet waste, while comparable rates in Ahmedabad for transporting waste or soil typically range from ₹2,500 to ₹3,000.
The student group further claimed that Dhruv Corporation received payments amounting to lakhs and crores over the last six years without an open tender process. They questioned why the agency continued to receive contracts despite the requirement for e-tendering for major expenditures.
NSUI alleged that the university's estate department, which manages campus maintenance, requires investigation regarding its supervision of these arrangements. The organisation also claimed the alleged overpayments involved funds collected from students through fees.
The student organisation has demanded police action against the agency and responsible officials, as well as the recovery of any wrongly paid amounts. NSUI and some senate members also alleged that previous university controversies resulted in committee inquiries rather than criminal complaints.
The vice-chancellor has promised that a detailed report on the matter will be submitted within seven days.