This is an archive article published on December 31, 2024
Gujarat Confidential: Missed Opportunity?
For MSU, which had been facing criticism over the “delayed” convocation for want of a “dignitary of high stature” to be the Chief Guest, the turn of events has raised more questions.
The 73rd convocation of Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU) was held on Sunday in a “simple manner” due to the seven-day mourning declared after the passing of Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, who had agreed to become the Chief Guest at the event, called off his programme in light of Singh’s demise. For MSU, which had been facing criticism over the “delayed” convocation for want of a “dignitary of high stature” to be the Chief Guest, the turn of events has raised more questions. The convocation of the university coincided with the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations of the Department of Biochemistry, which saw Nobel laureate and MSU alumnus Venkatraman Ramakrishnan ‘Venki’ delivering a lecture.
According to murmurs within academic and alumni circles, MSU management “missed out on a golden opportunity” to have Ramakrishnan preside over the convocation instead of looking for political leaders. University officials, however, said that since the convocation was “meant to be a simple affair”, the management “did not consider looking for another Chief Guest” after Dhankhar cancelled his visit. The MSU, which had earlier resolved to fix September 5 as its annual convocation date, had said that the delay in organising the event was due to “protocol and process” involved in inviting “inspiring” Chief Guests.
Surprise Visit
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Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel Monday night paid a surprise visit to the main bus station of Gandhinagar and inquired with passengers about facilities available to them. Accompanied by additional chief secretary M K Das, the CM minutely observed the procedures at the control room and ticket window. The CM also interacted with travellers and officials of the bus station. An official release from the Chief Minister’s Office said that the CM has adopted the approach of making surprising visits to check regularity and quality of services being made available to the people of Gujarat.
Gujarat Assembly 
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