Dr Shivaraj, a retired professor of chemistry from Osmania University, Hyderabad, has been appointed the regular vice-chancellor (VC) of Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), ending nearly two years during which the university had functioned without a regular head.

RGU had been functioning without a regular VC since October 2024.

Arunachal Pradesh University (APU), Pasighat, has also been without a regular VC, as the post has remained vacant since February 2026 despite being advertised in August 2025.

While the process of appointing a regular VC is already underway, it is alarming that institutions of higher education in the state have remained without regular appointees for such long periods, as this does little to inspire confidence or provide a sense of stability.

While the NERIST continues to remain a battleground for various interest groups and is marred by allegations of corruption, RGU, with its own share of past controversies, must ensure that it stays on the path of academic excellence, upholds the freedom to learn and express, and maintains good governance.