Bibek Debroy resigns as Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics chancellor amid controversy over Ajit Ranade’s termination

In an email addressed to Ranade, Debroy congratulated Ranade for getting a stay order and his continuation as GIPE vice-chancellor.

“You asserted in your writ petition that I had not applied my mind and the stay order vindicates your position,” Debroy said in the email. Under these circumstances, Debroy noted, he has no moral right to continue in his post. “I am standing down with immediate effect,” he said in the communication. Debroy further said he will not be present for the convocation of the institution scheduled for October 5.

Debroy, an economist and chairperson of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, succeeded Rajiv Kumar, whose term ended on July 14.

Dr Ajit Ranade was dismissed from his role on September 14 after an inquiry concluded that his qualifications did not meet University Grants Commission (UGC) norms. Following his termination, Ranade sought an urgent hearing in the Bombay High Court to challenge the decision.

On September 26, the High Court issued an interim order saying Ranade’s termination would not take effect until October 7.

Professor Shankar Das, Dean, School of Health Systems Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, will continue to manage daily administrative duties while Ranade remains vice-chancellor until further notice. The court is scheduled to hear Ranade’s plea on October 4.

(With inputs from PTI)