Madras High Court Seeks Report From Tamil Nadu On 14 Universities Without Vice-Chancellors

In a significant development, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to explain why nearly 14 universities in the state have been functioning without regular Vice-Chancellors for several years. The direction came from Justice B. Pugalendhi on August 19 while hearing a petition challenging the appointment of a temporary Registrar-in-charge at Madurai Kamaraj University.

From One Registrar to a State-Wide Vacancy

The case originated with a writ of quo warranto filed by A. Velanganni Joseph, who questioned the authority of Dr. S. Muhaiah to continue as Registrar (In-charge) of Madurai Kamaraj University, alleging he lacked the required qualifications. The university, however, informed the court that Dr. Muhaiah was only holding the post temporarily and possessed all necessary qualifications, having been appointed by a competent authority.

The university also disclosed that a notification for a regular Registrar had been issued on June 2, 2026, with applications received by the July 8 deadline, and that the appointment process was underway.

Court Takes Note of Broader Issue

During arguments, counsel on both sides submitted that a stunning 14 universities across Tamil Nadu currently have no Vice-Chancellors. Most are being administered by Registrars-in-charge, while crucial decisions are taken by Convenor Committees. This revelation prompted the court to look beyond the immediate petition.

"Though this Court is not inclined to entertain this writ petition, considering the submissions made across the Bar that there have been no Vice-Chancellors in almost 14 Universities for several years, this Court expects a report on this from the first respondent/Secretary to Government," Justice Pugalendhi observed.

What the Court Ordered

The court directed Additional Advocate General J. Barathan to obtain instructions from the Principal Secretary of the Higher Education Department on the reasons for the prolonged vacancies and what measures are being implemented to appoint regular Vice-Chancellors. The matter has been posted for further hearing after three weeks.

The order underscores growing judicial concern over the administrative vacuum in Tamil Nadu's public higher education system, where several universities continue to operate without their top academic and administrative heads for extended periods.