Governor bypasses Kerala government's pick for Agricultural University V-C, appoints senior academic
Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has appointed Dr T. Sajitha Rani as Vice-Chancellor (in-charge) of Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), setting aside the name recommended by the state government. Dr Sajitha Rani, currently Dean at KAU's College of Agriculture in Padannakkad, will hold the post until a regular Vice-Chancellor is appointed, according to an order issued on June 27.
The Governor, in his capacity as Chancellor of the university, has the authority to make such appointments under the Kerala Agricultural University Act. However, the state government has criticised the move, arguing that its recommendation was ignored without due consideration.
Higher Education Minister Roji M. John termed the Governor's decision a violation of democratic principles and said the government would explore legal options. Agriculture Minister T. Siddique stated that the government's nominee had national and international recognition for academic excellence, while the Governor's choice was based solely on seniority. Dr Sajitha Rani has over 32 years of service and holds a PhD in agronomy from KAU.
The appointment has drawn criticism from some quarters because Dr Sajitha Rani is a member of a BJP-affiliated teachers' organisation. However, sources in the Governor's office (Lok Bhavan) said the decision was based on seniority and not political affiliation.
This is not the first instance of friction between the Governor and the state government over university appointments. Similar disagreements have occurred in other states where the Governor serves as Chancellor of state universities. The Kerala government has previously expressed concerns about what it sees as unilateral decisions by the Governor.
Dr Sajitha Rani is expected to assume charge immediately. The university's functioning is likely to continue without disruption, but the political controversy may escalate if the government decides to challenge the appointment legally.
