In a swift administrative change following political uproar, Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya has appointed Dr Vijay Kumar, a senior physics professor from IGU Meerpur, as the new Vice-Chancellor of Chaudhary Devi Lal University (CDLU), Sirsa.

Dr Kumar replaces Prof Narsi Ram Bishnoi, who drew criticism over renaming campus buildings after figures linked to the Hindutva movement, including Veer Savarkar and VHP leader Ashok Singhal. While Prof Bishnoi said the move was to “inspire students with values of national service and cultural pride,” JJP leader Digvijay Chautala accused him of ignoring previous decisions and political neutrality.

Further allegations of administrative overreach, including staff appointments favouring relatives and unauthorised replacements of wardens and security staff, intensified calls for Prof Bishnoi’s removal.

Dr Vijay Kumar, a PhD from NIT Kurukshetra, brings over 28 years of academic and administrative experience. He has over 100 research publications and has held senior roles including Principal, Registrar, and Dean. His leadership during the Covid crisis was widely appreciated.