Kumar Prabhat
Dumka
The sudden resignation of Sido Kanhu Murmu University (SKMU) Registrar Dr. Rajiv Ranjan Sharma has brought to light an escalating internal power struggle, plunging the university into an administrative crisis. The conflict, widely described on campus as a clash between Registrar Dr. Rajiv Ranjan Sharma and Proctor Dr. Rajiv Kumar, had reportedly been simmering for months over administrative issues.
Sources claim that internal factionalism led to arbitrary decision-making and disrupted the university’s governance, with key statutory bodies such as the Syndicate and Senate allegedly not holding regular meetings.
Following his resignation, Dr. Sharma handed over charge to College Development Council (CCDC) Coordinator Dr. Abdus Sattar, who has been given additional charge as officiating Registrar. In his first public remarks after stepping down, Dr. Sharma described the university’s working environment as “toxic,” alleging continuous harassment, repeated show-cause notices, denial of leave, and conspiracies by an influential internal group. He also claimed that two previous Registrars had similarly been forced to leave before completing their terms.
A key point of contention is the appointment and promotion of Proctor Dr. Rajiv Kumar, an issue reportedly under Raj Bhavan’s scrutiny since 2008. Dr. Sharma alleged he was made a scapegoat for implementing directions related to the matter. However, Dr. Kumar rejected the allegations, maintaining that his appointment fully complies with all rules and that supporting records are available with the university.
Amid the deepening crisis, the Jharkhand government’s Higher and Technical Education Secretary Rahul Purwar is scheduled to visit SKMU on July 15 to review the situation. He is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the Registrar’s resignation, assess the ongoing factionalism, and review pending administrative and financial issues. The visit is being viewed as crucial for restoring stability at the university.
