Hold talks, end row over V-C selection, say experts

CHENNAI: Two days after UGC chairman M Jagadesh Kumar made it clear that it was mandatory to have to UGC nominee in the VC selection panel, academics are worried the stalemate between the state and the centre over the issue might continue, resulting in further delay of V-C appointments in five state universities. However, the issue started last year when the governor recommended for the inclusion of a UGC nominee in the search committee formed for selection of Madras university V-C and TN opposed it saying the state universities Act does not allow the same; the matter is sub judice. Former V-C of University of Madras SP Thyagarajan said, “The state can either amend the Act for inclusion of UGC nominee or fight it legally. State feels that a UGC nominee will interfere in the V-C selection but the nominee might help in ensuring quality in the appointment,” the V-C said on condition of anonymity.