Tamil Nadu appoints interim V-Cs for two

The Tamil Nadu Higher Education Department has appointed senior professors as interim Vice-Chancellors for two state-run universities. This move comes after the tenures of the regular Vice-Chancellors at Alagappa University and Manonmaniam Sundaranar University ended earlier in August 2026.

In an interview with The Hindu, Higher Education Minister P. Viswanathan explained the decision. He stated the objective is to ensure universities continue to function smoothly without administrative or academic bottlenecks. Convocations, financial approvals, and other processes should not be affected by the vacancies.

Interim appointments made

J. Jeyakanthan, a senior professor and head of the Department of Bioinformatics, was appointed Vice-Chancellor in-charge for Alagappa University. For Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, S. Prabhakar from the Department of English was named to the interim role.

Officials clarified that this arrangement is a purely interim and temporary measure taken under existing university statutes. Minister Viswanathan suggested that if this model proves efficient, it could be extended to other universities in the state. Ten universities have been functioning without permanent Vice-Chancellors for the past two years under a different system known as the Convener Committee.

Syndicate meetings to review system

The Syndicates, or governing bodies, of the two universities are slated to meet early next month. They are expected to deliberate on the pros and cons of the existing Convener Committee system and other alternatives. The outcome of these meetings could significantly influence the future of university administration across Tamil Nadu.

The issue remains entangled in litigation. A writ was filed at the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court by K. Venkatachalapathy of Tirunelveli. It challenges several legislations passed by the State Assembly aimed at amending statutes for state-run universities. The final hearing for this case is scheduled for September 2.

Seeking a permanent resolution

For a more permanent solution, the State government has opened a channel of communication with Lok Bhavan, the Governor's office. The core disagreement between the State government and the Governor has centered on the composition of Vice-Chancellor Search Committees. Specifically, there has been debate over including a nominee from the University Grants Commission.

Minister Viswanathan noted this issue requires a policy decision and may necessitate legislative changes. He expressed hope that a solution could be worked out soon, potentially before the end of the current Assembly session. The Minister also observed that the current relationship between the Governor and the Chief Minister is smoother, which he deemed important for government functioning and avoiding unnecessary confrontations.