The Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Department has sought clarification as to whether it can assign look after charges of principals of colleges during the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

The department in a communique to government has informed that a large number of principals of the government degree colleges are attaining the age of superannuation during the months of March and April, 2024.

“In order to run the affairs of these colleges smoothly, the Department intends to allow senior most faculty members amongst the faculties of the same college to look after the charge of the principal in addition to their own duties til permanent arrangement is made by the Department,” it reads.

In a communique the official said that the Higher Education Department may be advised as to whether assigning of the look after charge to the senior most faculty members in the respective colleges can be made by the department during the currency of the Model Code of Conduct in the interest of administration and students.

“The Higher Education Department has received select lists from the JKPSC for the appointment of Assistant Professors in respect of various subjects, which may also involve their postings in the department,” it reads.

It also said that the Department is receiving the character and antecedents verifications from CID.

“The Election Commission of India in a communication regarding enforcement of MCC, Dos and Don'ts, wherein Point No. 22 allows regular recruitment or appointments or promotion through the UPSC, State Public Service Commissions or the Staff Selection Commission or any other statutory authority can continue,” it reads.

The communique further reads that the recruitment through non statutory bodies will require prior clearance of the Commission.

“In this regard, the Department may kindly be advised as to whether the appointments on the recommendations of the JKPSC could be effected.”

“The Higher Education Department may be advised whether the placement of the eligible Assistant Professors to the next higher grades under Career Advancement Scheme could be considered or otherwise, during MC or not,” it reads—(KNO)