Prof Das removed as TISS pro-VC after vigilance complaint

Although dismissed as pro-VC, Das will continue in his academic role as a faculty member, confirmed sources from the education department

Mumbai: The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) has relieved professor Shankar Das as pro-vice chancellor (pro-VC) with immediate effect, following a complaint received from the central vigilance department.

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The decision was formally communicated by the institute to Das, currently the dean of the School of Health Systems Studies, late at night on June 5.

Das, who joined the institute in 2008, said, "I am deeply pained and shocked by the baseless allegations being circulated against me. After having served this institution with utmost sincerity and dedication for 35 years — as a student, a faculty member, and most recently as pro vice-chancellor — this comes as a grave personal and professional affront."

The complaint pertained to alleged misappropriation of funds, which prompted TISS to set up a fact-finding committee and initiate a preliminary inquiry in accordance with institutional procedures, an official from the administration, aware of the developments, said.

After the committee recommended that a detailed investigation was necessary, a second committee was appointed to conduct an in-depth probe, which is currently underway.

Considered an authority on public health, health promotion, primary care, and professional education, he was appointed pro-VC of TISS on January 30, 2024.

Das, however, alleged, “I have consistently upheld the highest standards of integrity and commitment to this institution. The timing and nature of these allegations, especially in the absence of a sitting vice-chancellor for the past two years, raises serious concerns and compels me to believe this is a targeted attempt to malign my reputation.”

Although dismissed as pro-VC, Das will continue in his academic role as a faculty member, education department official, aware of the matter, said. He was appointed pro-VC of TISS on January 30, 2024.

“I have full faith that the truth will emerge, and I respectfully urge everyone to refrain from drawing premature conclusions. I also appeal for sensitivity in reporting, as unverified information can cause irreparable damage to one’s dignity and morale,” said Das, who has over 30 years of experience in the government, public sector, academic, and international organisations.