RCU Writes to PhD Scholar Sujata Over Controversial Convocation Certificate issue

Rani Channamma University (RCU) has issued a letter to PhD scholar Sujata Pol, asking her to pay the required fee through the university’s student portal by December 31 in order to receive her PhD convocation certificate. The letter, dated December 16, was not accepted by Sujata, who felt the manner in which it was given to her was inappropriate.

Earlier, the university had withheld her convocation certificate after she filed a harassment complaint against her PhD supervisor. Although Sujata later withdrew the complaint, the university sent her a notice seeking an explanation for the withdrawal and questioning why her certificate should not remain withheld or legal action considered.

During this prolonged dispute, Sujata reportedly attempted suicide around three weeks ago by consuming sleeping pills. She was taken to the hospital in time and survived. She is currently serving as the principal of a private college in Chikodi taluk.

After her recovery, Sujata stated that she withdrew the complaint only after vice-chancellor Prof. CM Thyagaraja and registrar Santosh Kamagouda intervened to resolve the issue. 

She said her guide, KLN Murthy, apologised and asked her to retract the complaint. She agreed, noting that the university had already suspended him for six months, which she believed was sufficient disciplinary action.