The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has declined to entertain a writ petition challenging the continuation of the Registrar (In-charge) of Madurai Kamaraj University, but sought a report on the prolonged vacancy of Vice-Chancellor posts in several Tamil Nadu universities.
Justice B. Pugalendhi passed the order on August 19, 2026, in W.P.(MD) No.23417 of 2026.
Background Of The Case
The petitioner, A. Velanganni Joseph, approached the High Court through a writ of quo warranto, seeking an explanation regarding the authority under which the third respondent was continuing as Registrar (In-charge) of Madurai Kamaraj University. The petition alleged that the incumbent did not possess the required qualification.
The University's counsel submitted that the Registrar was holding the post only temporarily, possessed the required qualifications and had been appointed by a competent authority. It was also informed that the process for appointing a regular Registrar was already underway.Court Observation
During the hearing, counsel submitted that nearly 14 universities in Tamil Nadu were functioning without Vice-Chancellors and that several were being administered through Registrars (In-charge), with decisions being taken by the Convenor Committee.
The Court observed:
“Though this Court is not inclined to entertain this writ petition, considering the submissions made across the Bar that there have been no Vice-Chancellors in almost 14 Universities for several years, this Court expects a report on this from the first respondent/Secretary to Government.”
Decision
The High Court directed the Additional Advocate General to obtain instructions on the reasons for the vacancies and the steps being taken to fill the Vice-Chancellor posts.
The matter was directed to be listed after three weeks.
Case Details:
Case Title: A. Velanganni Joseph v. The Principal Secretary to Government & Ors.
Case Number: W.P.(MD) No.23417 of 2026
Judge: Justice B. Pugalendhi
Decision Date: August 19, 2026
