Tamil Nadu Higher Education Minister Seeks Cooperation with Governor on University Vice-Chancellor Appointments
Tamil Nadu's Higher Education Minister P. Viswanathan stated on Tuesday that while the state government does not seek confrontation with the Governor, it will not compromise on its constitutional right to appoint Vice-Chancellors to state universities. The dispute stems from the UGC's mandate to include its nominee in selection panels, which the minister argues represents an attempt by the Centre to control higher education. The issue is pending before the Supreme Court, with 12 of 13 state universities currently without Vice-Chancellors, affecting governance and decision-making.
Tamil Nadu's Higher Education Minister P. Viswanathan addressed the ongoing dispute between the state government and the Governor regarding the appointment of Vice-Chancellors to state universities. Using a metaphor about vehicle wheels, he emphasized that both the Governor and Chief Minister must work in harmony for universities to function properly. The minister clarified that the current government, unlike its predecessor, does not seek confrontation but will not surrender the state's constitutional autonomy in these appointments. He attributed the core issue to the UGC's requirement to include its nominee in selection committees, which he contends is an attempt by the Centre to centralize control over higher education. The dispute has persisted since 2021, leaving 12 of 13 state universities without Vice-Chancellors and causing administrative delays. The matter is currently pending before the Supreme Court, and the minister expressed confidence in a favorable outcome that would protect the state's rights.
What's missing
The article does not provide the Governor's perspective or response to these allegations, nor does it detail the specific Supreme Court case details, timeline of the dispute, or the previous Governor's stated rationale for his actions.
What different sources said
- The HinduCenter
Do not want confrontation with Governor, but cannot compromise on State’s rights: Tamil Nadu Higher Education Minister
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