NIPER: HC stays termination of whistle-blower scientist

Taking note of allegations of harassment and malafide levelled against the director and chairman of NIPER,the high court today issued notices to the two asking them to respond to Kumar’s petition. Also,notices have been issued to the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers for its response. Recently,students of the institute had gone on hunger strike against the termination of Kumar and another professor.

Granting two weeks time to the respondents to submit their response,the high court today ordered that “compulsory retirement of the scientist shall be kept in abeyance”. The high court has also recorded strong discontent and regret of the scientist who has decided to discontinue his association with NIPER,where he performed for over 10 years.

Exasperated by the vindictive attitude of the chairman and director of NIPER,Kumar has submitted that all he wants is “an honourable exit”.

Arguing on behalf of the petitioner,senior lawyer Sanjay Kaushal assisted by advocate Arjun Shukla argued that Kumar has not been punished for any misconduct “but for being a whistle-blower and he does not wish to continue in this institute.”

The petitioner has undertaken to vacate the residential premises allotted to him within 15 days but for his future career prospects,it was argued,it is imperative that while applying for another job his current status be reflected as that of an assistant professor in NIPER.

Kumar has also submitted that he “shall also eschew any monetary benefits and will not insist for any salary and allowances from November 14,but the operation of the order should be stayed subject to the offers made above”.

Allowing his request,Justice Ajay Tewari today stayed the orders of NIPER chairman subject to offers made by Kumar. A noted researcher in cancer research,drug delivery and tissue engineering,Kumar has submitted that main grouse of the officials against him was that he exposes the “glaring irregularities” by the institute.

Exposed

* In 2011,Kumar had petitioned the High Court against the constitution of Senate of NIPER by the director. The same was held “illegal” and set aside by the high court

* Last year,Kumar had again moved the high court against the appointment of a “non-deserving candidate” to the “sensitive” post of registrar,NIPER. The same was quashed by the HC holding it as “arbitrary”