Background
A former member of the Bharathiar University Vice-Chancellor Committee, P. Thirunavukkarasu, has submitted a representation to the Higher Education Department. He is seeking intervention to ensure the university adheres to government regulations regarding principal retirement and tenure.
Government Order and University Circular
The Government Order (GO) issued in 2021 established that the retirement age for college principals is 60 years. The circular issued by the Bharathiar University Governing Council in July 2024 stated that a principal could be appointed for five years, with a possible extension of another five years.
High Court Intervention
In April 2026, the Madras High Court issued an order stating that the GO does not apply to self-financing colleges. This order was a response to a petition filed by a principal of a self-financing college.
Allegations and Demand for Action
According to Prof. Thirunavukkarasu, the university sided with the managements of self-financing colleges. He is demanding appropriate action against those responsible for presenting the earlier orders in a way that led to the High Court’s decision.
Faculty Support
Prof. Thirunavukkarasu noted that faculty members support the University challenging the High Court order, specifically regarding the exclusion of self-financing colleges from the earlier retirement and tenure guidelines.
Next Steps
It is currently unclear what action the Higher Education Department will take. The situation remains under review.
Source: The Hindu. Featured image credit: The Hindu.
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