Pune University to audit accounts from 2017–2024.
Audit report due by March 31, 2026.
Tech department head accused of corruption.
Pune, 1st October 2025: Savitribai Phule Pune University has ordered a forensic audit into its financial records covering 2017 to 2024, following strong demands from senate members who alleged widespread irregularities.
During the university senate meeting on Tuesday, members questioned the legality of several transactions carried out during the tenure of the former vice-chancellor. They argued that the university’s accounts submitted to the government for five consecutive years were dubious and must be investigated thoroughly.
Vice-Chancellor Dr. Suresh Gosavi initially suggested a preliminary probe through a committee, but members firmly rejected this. After nearly five hours of debate, he conceded and announced that a forensic audit would be conducted, with the report to be submitted by March 31, 2026.
Alongside the financial probe, the senate also raised concerns about alleged corruption linked to funds provided by the Tribal Research and Training Institute and the Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA). Members claimed that the head of the technology department was involved in serious irregularities.
A joint memorandum submitted by senate members, including Amol Gholap, Sachin Gorde, Ishaanee Joshi, Dr. Harsh Gaikwad, Dr. Harsh Jagjap, Dr. Yogesh Bhole and Advait Bamboli, demanded that the official be placed on compulsory leave during the inquiry to prevent tampering of records. They also called for an independent inquiry committee with senate representation.
With growing pressure, the university administration confirmed that strict legal examination and follow-up action would take place. The decision marks a rare instance of a premier educational institution in Pune facing a forensic audit, signal a significant step toward accountability and transparency.
