V-C selection in KTU & DUK a tough call for govt

UNCERTAINTY prevails over the appointment of new vice chancellors in APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU) and Digital University of Kerala (DUK) as the term of the incumbent interim VCs in both universities is set to end this month.

- Sovi Vidyadharan @T'Puram

Though rules stipulate appointment of a regular V-C within six months of appointing an interim V-C, the process has been stalled indefinitely in all varsities due to differences between the government and governor on the composition of the selection panel. This would necessitate a return to the interim V-C arrangement.

In November last year, former governor Arif Mohammed Khan had appointed interim V-Cs in KTU and DUK for a six-month period following the failure to reach a consensus with the government on V-C selection. Khan made the appointments after disregarding a panel of names provided by the state government. His decision was challenged by the government in the High Court.