The Supreme Court of India, on August 1, 2025, heard the matter related to the appointment of Vice-Chancellors (VCs) in 36 universities of West Bengal. The case arose from disputes between the State Government and the Chancellor regarding the selection process.
In its earlier order dated 08 July 2024, the Court had formed a High-Powered Selection Committee headed by Justice U.U. Lalit, former Chief Justice of India. This committee was tasked with shortlisting candidates, irrespective of the selection committees prescribed in university statutes.
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“The Chancellor shall appoint Vice-Chancellors from the panel recommended by the Chief Minister unless valid objections are raised.” — Supreme Court’s 08.07.2024 order
On 11 July 2025, Justice Lalit submitted a report highlighting differences:
- In 7 universities, the Chancellor found the second-preferred candidates (not first as suggested by CM) more suitable.
- In 8 universities, the third-preference candidates were preferred over the first two.
- In the Rabindra Bharati University case, Prof. Sonali Chakravarti Banerjee was found suitable but her appointment was earlier blocked due to her existing VC role at West Bengal State University.
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Taking stock of these findings and hearing both parties, the Court clarified and modified key parts of its earlier directions:
1. Independence to Justice Lalit Committee
“Justice U.U. Lalit and his committee may disregard the Chief Minister’s preference order and independently choose the best candidate.”
2. Consider All Views
“The committee must consider the opinions of both the Chancellor and Chief Minister with due weight.”
3. Specific Instructions on Remaining Appointments
- If Prof. Sonali Chakravarti Banerjee chooses to move to Rabindra Bharati University, the Chancellor must approve her appointment.
- The vacant VC position at West Bengal State University will be filled afresh by the committee.
- If no specific objections exist, the No.1 candidate for Cooch Behar Panchanan Barma University should be appointed promptly.
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- Justice Lalit’s panel is now authorized to determine its own preference order for the remaining 15 universities (7 + 8 cases).
- The Court expressed confidence that the committee will expedite the process.
- The matter is scheduled for further hearing on 26 September 2025.
Case Title: The State of West Bengal vs. Dr. Sanat Kumar Ghosh & Ors.
Petition Type: Special Leave to Appeal (C) No. 17403/2023
Arising out of: Final judgment dated 28.06.2023 in WPA(P) No. 272/2023 passed by Calcutta High Court
Date of Supreme Court Order: 01 August 2025