Campus Times | Lucknow

A serious controversy has erupted at Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU), where a research scholar from the Horticulture Department has accused the Head of Department of financial exploitation and misuse of authority. Acting swiftly, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Raj Kumar Mittal has constituted an inquiry committee to investigate the allegations.

HoD demand on Fellowship

The complaint was filed by research scholar Dinesh Kumar Meena against HoD Prof. A. L. Meena. According to the scholar, he was initially asked to pay ₹1,000 per month, which later escalated to a demand for half of his fellowship—approximately ₹25,000 monthly—allegedly in the name of facilitating his PhD completion.

In a shocking claim, the scholar further alleged that he and other students were routinely assigned personal errands, including ordering clothes and desi ghee, recharging mobile phones, and even paying electricity bills for the professor.

The situation reportedly worsened when the scholar refused to comply with the financial demands. He claims that Prof. Meena then withheld essential academic approvals, resulting in the suspension of his fellowship for the past six months.

HoD Under Scanner

The university administration has taken note of the seriousness of the matter. The inquiry committee has recorded the scholar’s statement and reviewed the evidence submitted. However, the final report is still pending.

Confirming the development, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mittal stated that strict action will be taken if the allegations are proven.

The case has sparked concern within academic circles, raising questions about the misuse of power and the protection of research scholars within higher education institutions.