Who calls for boardroom? 2 Varsities’ tug-of-war

Despite the trifurcation of Bangalore University taking place several years ago, some issues remain unresolved. One major problem still faced by the university is the lack of a proper boardroom to conduct syndicate meetings. It has been eight years since Bangalore University was split into three institutions. Before and after the trifurcation, Bangalore University relied on the boardroom in the seminar hall for conducting syndicate meetings and press conferences. However, after the division, there was confusion about which university would get control of the seminar hall and the boardroom.

The Higher Education Department intervened and allocated the seminar hall and the boardroom to Bengaluru City University. Initially, Bengaluru City University allowed Bangalore University to use the facilities without any charges for meetings, events, and convocations. However, over time, conditions were imposed, leading to disagreements between the two institutions. Recently, Bengaluru City University has refused to allow Bangalore University to conduct meetings in the boardroom, citing scheduling conflicts. This has led to further disputes, with Bangalore University requesting alternative arrangements from the vice-chancellor and registrar.

Meeting challenges

Last month, Bengaluru City University organised a syndicate meeting in the board room, leaving Bangalore University struggling to find a venue for its own meetings. Prof Lingaraj Gandhi, Vice-Chancellor of Bengaluru City University, commented, “We only have one boardroom for meetings. When our meetings are scheduled, it becomes difficult for others to use the room. As a result, we have asked the university to make alternative arrangements.” However, Dr MS Jayakar, Vice-Chancellor of Bangalore University, mentioned, “The construction of a new boardroom is currently underway at our university. The administrative building and seminar halls are also in the repair phase. Once these works are completed, we will hold our meetings at our own campus. Until then, we may face some inconvenience.”