The Karnataka governor is leading a case against the KSHEC vice-chairman over alleged financial irregularities

Thawarchand Gehlot. | Photo credit: File photo

Karnataka Governor and Chancellor Thaawarchand Gehlot have written to Higher Education Minister Basavaraj Rayaraddi to order appropriate action against Karnataka State Higher Education Council (KSHEC) Vice-Chairman SR Niranjan for alleged financial irregularities and misuse of public funds.

In his letter to the minister, the governor said: “Supporting documents submitted with the representation show that reimbursements are being claimed for many accounts from council funds and they do not appear to be following the rule.”

“KSHEC was established as a collective of government, universities, academics and professionals. The defilement of individuals in high positions in such a high-profile institution creates distrust among academics, teachers and students towards the institution. In order to protect universities in the state from misuse of public funds, financial irregularities must be taken seriously,” in this regard, I urge those concerned to take the matter seriously and discuss the matter personally. he said.

According to documents submitted by the complainant to the Lok Bhavan, Prof Niranjana allegedly claimed reimbursement from KSHEC funds for personal expenses and private entertainment.

Copies of bills reimbursed by the council were obtained by the complainant under the Right to Information Act. In one allegation made, copies of bills issued by a club in Bengaluru were reimbursed to KSHEC. Copies of some bills attached along with the complaint show that the food bills returned in June and July 2024 were worth ₹34,350, including the supermarket bill.

Published – 05 Sep 2026 22:23 IST