Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar appointed T. Sajitha Rani as vice-chancellor in-charge of Kerala Agricultural University on June 27, setting aside the state government's recommendation.
The governor, acting as chancellor of the university, issued an order naming Dr. Sajitha Rani, who serves as dean at the College of Agriculture in Padannakkad. She will handle the vice-chancellor duties alongside her regular responsibilities until a permanent appointment is made.
Higher Education Minister Roji M. John criticised the move as a unilateral action that violates democratic principles. He stated that the governor did not consider the state government's panel and said the government would decide on further legal steps.
Agriculture Minister T. Siddique noted that the government's choice was based on academic excellence and national reputation, while the appointment relied on seniority. Dr. Sajitha Rani joined service in 1993 and holds a PhD in agronomy from the university.
