During the 39th Convocation of Bharathiar University today, October 14, A Prakash, a PhD scholar receiving his degree in English from Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi submitted a formal letter to the governor, outlining several pressing issues faced by the academic community.
Prakash noted that certain guides do not regard research scholars as professionals, often compelling them to perform tasks unrelated to their academic work, including working in the homes of their research guides.
Additionally, the letter highlights the financial burden on Scheduled Caste (SC) students residing in ‘Adi Dravidian’ university hostels. Although the university operates public hostels designated for these students, they face high monthly mess fees, Prakash wrote.
The letter further claims that a few guides pressure research scholars to spend significant sums — ranging from fifty thousand to one lakh rupees — during their viva examinations. This includes offering money, food, and even gold to faculty members after successfully completing their evaluations.
The scholar also alleged financial mismanagement, claiming that while the university administration reportedly allocates over Ra 75 lakh annually for hostel maintenance, these funds are not being used effectively, with additional charges imposed on hostel residents for maintenance costs.
Prakash also highlighted that Sports Day has not been conducted for the past four years despite fees collected from students for sports purposes. Furthermore, while students and non-teaching staff are restricted from using university grounds, outsiders are allowed access on a rental basis over the weekends.
