IAS/UPSC Coaching Institute  

06 Sep 2025 : Governors as Chancellors

 Editorial 2: Governors as Chancellors

Context

Universities need to be headed by distinguished academicians. 

 

Introduction

The tussle between Governors and elected State governments over university administration highlights deeper questions of federalism and autonomy in higher education. Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar’ssubmission to the Supreme Court—excluding the Chief Minister from Vice-Chancellor (V-C) appointments—reflects this ongoing friction. The issue extends beyond Kerala, with similar contests seen in Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Punjab.

 

Governor’s Submission and UGC Rules

  • Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar told the Supreme Court:
    • The Chief Minister has no role in appointing Vice-Chancellors (V-Cs) of A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technological University and Digital University Kerala.
    • His stance mirrors similar Governor–State conflicts in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.
  • 2018 UGC Rules:
    • Search-cum-selection committees must include eminent persons in higher education, unconnected with the university.
    • The Governor argued this excludes the Chief Minister.
  • Draft 2025 UGC Regulations:
    • Further sidelines State governments.
    • Brings V-C appointments entirely under the Chancellor (Governor’s) purview.

Constitutional and Historical Role of Governors

  • Colonial Legacy: Governors were instruments of colonial control, retained after Independence.
  • Over time, legislation restricted Governors’ discretionary powers.
  • Post-Independence, Governors remained as Chancellors of universities to:
    • Safeguard independence in higher education.
    • Act as a symbolic “father figure” or elder.
  • However, the Governor’s role as Chancellor exists because of State laws, not constitutional mandate.

State Pushback and the Way Forward

  • State governments are increasingly challenging Governors’ influence in universities.
    • Punjab and West Bengal passed laws making the Chief Minister the Chancellor.
  • Courts are also curtailing Governors’ powers (e.g., on assent to Bills).
  • Key issue:
    • V-Cs should be distinguished academicians with vision, leadership, and managerial skills.
    • Appointments must avoid being reduced to political patronage, either by the Union or States.

 

Conclusion

The debate underscores the need to balance institutional independence with democratic accountability. Governors, historically colonial relics, cannot remain unchecked arbiters in higher education. States too must resist politicization of appointments. Ultimately, universities require visionary, academically accomplished leaders rather than nominees of political convenience. Resolving this tension is vital to safeguarding both federal principles and the integrity of India’s higher education system.