The Supreme Court on Monday raised questions over the appointment of Professor Naima Khatoon as the first woman Vice Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). The controversy stems from the participation of her husband, Professor Mohd. Gulrez, who was then officiating as Vice Chancellor, in the Executive Council meeting that recommended her name for the Visitor’s approval.
A bench led by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, along with Justices K Vinod Chandran and Justice N.V. Anjaria, was hearing petitions filed by Professors Muzaffar Uruj Rabbani and Faizan Mustafa challenging the Allahabad High Court order which had upheld Khatoon’s appointment.
Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the petitioners, argued:
"If this is the way Vice Chancellors are appointed, I shudder to think what will happen in the future."
The CJI observed that the process "raises doubts" when the husband presides over a meeting considering his wife’s candidature.
"It is said that things should not only be done properly but also be seen to be done properly," Justice Gavai remarked, adding that ideally the senior-most official should have chaired the meeting.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta agreed recusal would have been proper but cited the "doctrine of necessity" from Tata Cellular, claiming such participation did not vitiate the process.
Meanwhile, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati described the appointment as historic, calling Khatoon a woman of "stellar academic record” and the first woman to head AMU.
Justice K Vinod Chandran recused himself from the case, noting his prior role as Chancellor of CNLU when petitioner Faizan Mustafa was appointed VC there. The matter will now be listed before another bench on August 18, 2025.
Case Title: Muzaffar Uruj Rabbani & Anr. vs Union of India & Ors.
Case No.: SLP(C) No. 19209/2025
