Should Action Be Taken Against Periyar University Vice Chancellor by PMK's Ramadoss?
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Synopsis
Dr. S. Ramadoss of PMK is demanding immediate intervention from the Tamil Nadu government against Vice Chancellor R. Jagannathan for alleged retaliatory actions against faculty members. With his retirement looming, the call for action intensifies, raising questions about accountability and governance in education.
Key Takeaways
- Dr. Ramadoss demands action against Vice Chancellor Jagannathan.
- Allegations of retaliation against faculty members have emerged.
- Vaidhyanathan's suspension is seen as intimidation.
- Concerns over post-retirement influence by Jagannathan.
- Call for government to uphold transparency and accountability.
Chennai, May 18 (NationPress) PMK founder Dr S. Ramadoss has called on the Tamil Nadu government to take swift action against Periyar University's Vice Chancellor, R. Jagannathan, alleging that he has engaged in retaliatory measures against faculty who brought to light purported irregularities. In a statement released on Saturday, Ramadoss remarked, “Despite Vice Chancellor Jagannathan's impending retirement in two days, he persists in punishing faculty who previously highlighted his wrongdoings. The state government remains passive, failing to implement any corrective measures.”
He particularly highlighted the situation concerning Assistant Professor Vaidhyanathan from the Department of Economics, who also holds the position of president of the university’s professors’ association. A few months prior, Vaidhyanathan had sent a letter to the state government questioning the Vice Chancellor's appointment of a new registrar, citing a governmental directive that prevents VCs nearing the end of their term from making such appointments.
After media coverage of the letter, Jagannathan allegedly retaliated by suspending Vaidhyanathan through the Registrar. “This suspension was clearly an act of intimidation against the professor and contradicts existing High Court orders,” asserted Ramadoss.
With Jagannathan's retirement approaching on Monday, Ramadoss urged the state government to prevent any further “vindictive actions” during his final days in office.
He further alleged that the Vice Chancellor is trying to maintain influence post-retirement by bringing in some of his loyal supporters into the university’s administrative council.
“The government itself has accused the Vice Chancellor of corruption. Under the new University Act, the state has the capacity to take action against him,” said Ramadoss, calling for the government to annul Vaidhyanathan’s suspension and pursue appropriate actions against Jagannathan.
“The government must not stay silent,” he emphasized.
It's noteworthy that Ramadoss, as the leader of PMK, has been vocal about significant issues concerning the state government. This latest issue, which he is addressing against the Vice Chancellor, reflects his strategy to galvanize his party members ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize that the allegations against Vice Chancellor R. Jagannathan reflect deeper issues of accountability within educational governance. The call for action from Dr. Ramadoss underscores the need for transparency and justice in institutions that mold future leaders. The situation deserves careful scrutiny, ensuring that no faculty member faces undue retaliation for their commitment to integrity.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions did Dr. Ramadoss urge the government to take?
Dr. Ramadoss called for immediate action against Vice Chancellor R. Jagannathan for alleged retaliatory measures against faculty members.
Who is Assistant Professor Vaidhyanathan?
Assistant Professor Vaidhyanathan is from the Department of Economics and serves as the president of the university’s professors’ association.
What allegations have been made against Vice Chancellor Jagannathan?
Vice Chancellor Jagannathan is accused of punishing faculty members who reported irregularities and is alleged to have suspended Professor Vaidhyanathan in retaliation.
What is the significance of the upcoming retirement of Jagannathan?
Jagannathan's retirement is significant as it raises concerns about potential last-minute vindictive actions and the university's governance moving forward.
How has the government responded to these allegations?
The government has remained passive, according to Ramadoss, despite previous accusations of corruption against Jagannathan.
