In an unprecedented move, five constituent colleges of Patna University (PU) have appointed their new principals through a lottery system, rather than on the basis of merit or qualifications. This decision, made on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, has stirred debate among academics and raises questions about the management of educational institutions.
The appointed principals and their respective colleges are:
These five individuals were initially selected as principals based on recommendations from the Bihar State University Service Commission (BSUSC), following a review of their academic credentials and interviews. Traditionally, the vice-chancellor of the concerned university handles the posting of principals. However, after complaints of potential irregularities in principal postings at other universities, Governor-cum-Chancellor Arif Mohammed Khan mandated that BSUSC-recommended candidates would be assigned through a lottery system. This process was to be overseen by a three-member committee, including the vice-chancellor of the university and a representative of the chancellor.
The committee responsible for finalizing the postings in the PU colleges comprised of Vice-Chancellor Ajay Kumar Singh, Registrar Shalini, and the Chancellor's representative, Rahmat Jahan. While the notification of these postings is expected to be issued soon, the lottery system has drawn criticism from senior academics. Concerns have been raised about the suitability of placing individuals in roles that may not align with their subject matter expertise. For instance, questions have been raised regarding how a home science teacher can effectively manage a commerce institution, or how a chemistry teacher can administer a humanities and social sciences institution.
Notably, these appointments mark the first time in approximately 15 years that PU colleges will have principals recommended by the university service commission.
Adding another layer to the story, Dr. Suheli Mehta, who topped the list of selected principals, was assigned to the smallest college in Patna University through the lottery system. Displeased with not getting her preferred college, she has decided not to take the position and will continue serving as the Head of the PG Department.
Earlier this year, on May 20, 2025, the Patna High Court had put a stay on the lottery system for appointing principals in Bihar's universities. The court's decision came in response to a petition filed by Professor Suheli Mehta and others, challenging the Raj Bhavan's May 16 order mandating the lottery-based postings. The court argued that the university laws were being overlooked. The High Court has given the Raj Bhavan the option to revise the notification and reissue it in accordance with the law. The next hearing on the matter is scheduled for June 16, 2025.
The appointment of principals through a lottery system at Patna University is a controversial move that has sparked debate about fairness, suitability, and the governance of educational institutions. While the authorities aimed to ensure transparency, concerns remain regarding the ability of the selected principals to effectively lead colleges outside their areas of expertise.
