Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has appointed T. Sajitha Rani as the Vice-Chancellor (in-charge) of the Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), sparking a row. Dr. Sajitha Rani, currently the Dean at KAU’s College of Agriculture, Padannakkad, was appointed by the Governor in his capacity as Chancellor of the university. The Governor, in his capacity as Chancellor, KAU, has set aside the name recommended by the Kerala government.
Higher Education Minister Roji M. John has slammed the Governor’s decision, stating that it was made unilaterally and without considering the state government’s panel. Mr. John described the appointment as a violation of democratic principles. The Kerala government will discuss and decide on the legal course of action, he added.
Agriculture Minister T. Siddique has also reacted to the development, stating that the government’s recommendation was based on ‘academic excellence,’ while the Lok Bhavan had considered ‘seniority.’ Dr. Sajitha Rani entered service on August 16, 1993, and has over 32 years of academic experience. Her area of specialisation is agronomy, in which she secured her PhD from KAU in 2002.
The Lok Bhavan appointment has drawn flak on the grounds that Dr. Sajitha Rani is a member of a BJP-affiliated teachers’ organisation, but Lok Bhavan sources say the decision was based on seniority.
