Money played role in VC appointment: TN Guv

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Saturday alleged that money to the tune of crores of rupees “were exchanged” in the appointment of vice-chancellors to universities in the state before he took over.

“When I came to the state as a governor, I heard appointment of vice-chancellors (were made) in exchange for money. I could not believe that, and I decided that things have to be changed. Those who are in Chennai, in Tamil Nadu, will appreciate that till date I have appointed nine vice-chancellors fairly on merit. Nobody can raise a finger at me,” Purohit said.

He made the remarks while addressing a conference on higher education in Chennai.

“Things are gradually improving, and it will take time. It has started,” he told the conference.

The government on the defensive said it had no role in the selection of vice-chancellors, which is done by the Raj Bhavan.

“The vice-chancellors’ appointments are being done by the governor. The government or the higher education ministry does not appoint vice-chancellors,” it said.

Experts' take

Higher education institutes in Tamil Nadu have been under a thick cloud of corruption charges with senior academicians and former vice-chancellors openly accusing successive governments of “selling” the top posts for the “highest bidder” without scrutinising their qualification and competence.

Experts feel “political interference” is the root cause of corruption that has spread its tentacles in every possible sphere of the institutions and wants ministers who handle education portfolio to keep away from the appointment process.