Bhatnagar resigns as VC of Kumaon University

Noted academician Rakesh Bhatnagar has resigned as the Vice-Chancellor of Kumaon University within six months of assuming office, citing "non-cooperation" from the state government in running the affairs of the varsity.
Bhatnagar, in an interaction with the reporters here, said that he submitted his resignation today to Uttarakhand Governor Aziz Qureshi, who is also the chancellor of the universities based in the state.
Giving reasons for his resignation, Bhatnagar said he did not get the required cooperation from the government for releasing the salary of University staff and the grants needed for expansion of the varsity.
He said he was also under pressure as he was receiving umpteen recommendatory phone calls from influential people for appointments.

"Another disturbing factor was the number of phone calls for recommendations I received during the interviews conducted by the Universiy in March-April," he said.
"These were the hindrances which were not allowing me to perform my duties," Bhatnagar said.
A reputed biotechnologist and a former professor at the Jawaharlal Nehru University, Bhatnagar has to his credit the development of genetically engineered vaccine against anthrax.