Today, On 8th May, In the West Bengal VC appointments case, the Supreme Court refused to share Justice UU Lalit’s report. It firmly stated, “Won’t provide copy for mudslinging a former CJI,” rejecting the lawyer’s request for access.
New Delhi: In the case regarding the appointment of Vice Chancellors for several West Bengal universities, the Supreme Court today declined a lawyer’s request for access to a copy of former Chief Justice UU Lalit’s report.
A bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh adjourned the matter until tomorrow to determine Justice Lalit’s availability to review the materials presented to the court by Attorney General R. Venkataramani.
Also Read: SC Directs WB Governor to Appoint 6 VCs from Mamata Govt’s List
The Supreme Court is currently addressing the contentious issue of VC appointments in 17 state-run universities in West Bengal, which has arisen from disputes between the state government and Governor C.V. Ananda Bose, who serves as the Chancellor of these institutions.
During a recent hearing, Attorney General Venkataramani submitted a sealed cover containing selection records and related documents to the bench.
The Attorney General noted,
“I could not, I could say yes to somebody who might think could not be otherwise answered. He spoke to me in a, in a, in a very kindly manner. So that’s what we thought we’ll give it to your lotshift and take it. That material must have been examined by just the.”
Justice Surya Kant raised concerns about the transparency of the selection process, stating,
“You’re not just him to look into this because it supports I am sharing this selection and something is not before me. I make a recommendation. Tomorrow you bring something to me, even I may reconsider that yes.”
Also Read: WB Governor Accused of Sexual Harassment | Does Article 361 Provides Immunity?
The lawyer representing the West Bengal government urged the court to consult the Justice committee before making any decisions.
He emphasized,
“Put the matter before the Justice committee first. There’s no difficulty will not only our only concern is kindly will not conclude this process this side of the because will not seventeen universities are in limbo and will remain in limbo for many months if this is not resolved.”
Justice Surya Kant inquired about Justice UU Lalit’s availability, to which the advocate for West Bengal responded,
“Justice Lalit may not be available until the end of July.”
The Supreme Court acknowledged the submission of the sealed cover and decided to schedule further hearings.
Also Read: “Six VCs Appointed 5 More Names to be Notified Soon”: WB Governor to Supreme Court
Justice Surya Kant firmly stated,
“We will not provide you the copy for the purpose of mudslinging a former CJI.”
The case is scheduled to be revisited tomorrow after lunch, as the court aims to find a resolution that guarantees fairness and transparency in the appointment of Vice Chancellors in West Bengal’s state-run universities.
Case Title: THE STATE OF WEST BENGAL KUNAL MIMANI [P-1] Versus DR. SANAT KUMAR GHOSH AND ORS