AU Backlog Hiring Sparks Fresh Questions Over Transparency

Andhra University is facing growing criticism over its recent recruitment process for SC and ST backlog posts. Critics say the exercise lacked transparency and may have allowed ineligible candidates to benefit. Some applicants are now preparing to take legal action.

The backlog has been unresolved for years. The university first issued a notification in 2018, but the process never moved forward. A fresh notification was released in 2021 to fill 33 posts, which drew nearly a thousand applications.

Many were alarmed to see candidates with MBA, MTech, and MCA degrees applying for roles such as mess workers, horticulture staff, and hostel assistants, even though the university had clearly stated that only seventh or tenth class qualifications were required. These posts were meant to be filled strictly on merit, without interviews.

After applications were submitted, serious complaints emerged about candidates’ qualifications and irregularities in the selection process. Several applicants approached the court, creating legal hurdles that stalled the recruitment.

The university has now completed the process. But critics say only 28 of the 33 posts were filled, and that this was done without any public disclosure. It remains unclear whether a new notification was issued or if the appointments were made under the earlier one.

The merit list was also not published on the university’s website, which is standard practice in any recruitment exercise. Instead, appointment orders were issued individually. There are also allegations that four of the selected candidates come from the same locality in the city, raising doubts about external influence.

Applicants and observers are urging the university to clarify whether the recruitment followed the rules. Some are preparing to approach the courts again. Candidates want senior officials at Andhra University to issue a clear and detailed explanation of the process without delay.