New Delhi/IBNS: 181 academic leaders Vice Chancellors of top universities like Delhi University (DU), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) have sought an action against Congress top leader Rahul Gandhi for allegedly spreading falsehoods over appointment processes in educational institutions, media reports said.

The academic leaders have issued an open letter seeking "appropriate action" against Rahul, who is contesting from Kerala's Wayanad and Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

The signatories have also started an online petition in address to the Election Commission of India (ECI) as the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is in place in the country.

Titled as "torchbearers being torched", the open letter says, "We strongly urge all individuals involved to exercise discernment in distinguishing fact from fiction, to abstain from spreading unfounded rumours, and to participate in dialogue that is well-informed, constructive, and supportive of our shared goal of creating a dynamic and inclusive educational environment."

"With utmost conviction, the Vice Chancellors of prestigious Universities nationwide and Academic Leaders, address and refute the baseless allegations that have recently been circulated concerning the selection process," it added.

The signatories include incumbent VCs from MS University, Baroda; Central University of Haryana, Mahendragarh; North East Hill University, Shillong; Delhi University; JNU; the AICTE chairperson; former UGC chairperson, NCERT director.

Trashing Rahul's claims, the letter stated, "The process by which Vice Chancellors are selected is characterized by stringent, transparent, rigorous procedure grounded on values of meritocracy, scholarly distinction, and integrity."

Alleging that the Congress leader is making such claims for political gains, the academicians wrote, "It is, therefore, earnestly prayed that appropriate action be taken against him forthwith in accordance with law."