Periyar University in Salem, Tamil Nadu, has long been a respected institution, named after the iconic social reformer EV Ramasamy, fondly known as Periyar, whose legacy of rationalism and social justice continues to inspire. However, the university has recently been thrust into the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Its Vice-Chancellor, R. Jagannathan, has found himself at the center of a storm of allegations, ranging from financial misappropriation to casteist remarks, sparking protests, legal battles, and intense scrutiny from both the public and authorities. The recent six-hour interrogation of Jagannathan at a Salem police station marks a critical escalation in this ongoing saga, raising questions about governance, accountability, and the future of higher education in Tamil Nadu. This blog delves into the details of the controversy, its implications for the university, and the broader context of administrative challenges in India’s academic institutions.
The Allegations: A Web of Misconduct
The controversy surrounding Vice-Chancellor R. Jagannathan began to unfold in late 2024, when the Salem city police registered a case against him based on a complaint by I. Elangovan, the legal advisor of the Periyar University Employees Union (PUEU). The allegations are twofold and serious in nature. First, Jagannathan is accused of misappropriating university funds through the establishment of the Periyar University Technology Entrepreneurship and Research (PUTER) Foundation, a non-governmental educational entity allegedly created for personal gain. According to the complaint, this initiative was set up at the university’s expense, leading to financial losses and questions about its legitimacy. Second, Jagannathan faces charges under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, for allegedly making casteist remarks against Elangovan, who had questioned the PUTER Foundation’s operations.
These accusations have not emerged in isolation. The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) also launched an inquiry into irregularities in staff appointments at the university, questioning Jagannathan alongside other officials, including university librarian Jaya Prakash and physical trainer Venkatachalam, in late April 2025. The DVAC probe focused on alleged procedural violations in hiring, further fueling suspicions of systemic corruption within the university’s administration.
The most dramatic development came on April 25, 2025, when Jagannathan was summoned to the Suramangalam Assistant Police Commissioner’s office in Salem for a grueling six-hour interrogation. Over 300 questions were reportedly posed, covering both the financial misconduct and casteist remarks allegations. The timing of this questioning was particularly contentious, as it coincided with a Vice-Chancellors’ conference in Udhagamandalam, which Jagannathan skipped, sending two professors in his place. This absence drew sharp criticism from Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi, who accused the state government of using police intimidation to prevent university leaders from attending the conference, highlighting the intersection of this scandal with broader political tensions.
Protests and Public Outcry
The allegations against Jagannathan have ignited significant unrest on campus. On May 19, 2025, members of the Periyar University Employees Union staged a black-flag protest, demanding his arrest for the alleged irregularities and corruption. The protest marked the culmination of Jagannathan’s four-year tenure as Vice-Chancellor, which ended amid widespread discontent. Posts on social media platforms reflect the intensity of public sentiment, with users questioning why the Tamil Nadu government has not taken stronger action against Jagannathan and accusing him of retaliating against faculty who challenged his administration. One notable case involved the suspension of a professor, reportedly for raising concerns about university mismanagement, further inflaming tensions.
The Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), a prominent political party in Tamil Nadu, has also weighed in, with its president, Anbumani Ramadoss, criticizing the university’s move to offer B.Tech. and B.Sc. programs in Immersive Technology in collaboration with private entities. Ramadoss argued that such courses lack approval from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and could harm students by offering invalid credentials, pointing to a broader pattern of commercialization and mismanagement under Jagannathan’s leadership.
Legal Battles and Institutional Challenges
Jagannathan’s attempts to quash the criminal case against him have been unsuccessful. In early April 2025, the Madras High Court dismissed his plea to dismiss the First Information Report (FIR) filed by Elangovan, allowing the investigation to proceed. Justice G.K. Ilanthiraiyan, after hearing arguments from both sides, upheld the case, signaling that the allegations warranted further scrutiny. This ruling has emboldened critics and strengthened the resolve of those seeking accountability.
The state government has responded by forming a high-level committee to investigate the various complaints of irregularities at Periyar University, including corruption and administrative lapses. This committee’s findings could have far-reaching implications for the university’s governance and Jagannathan’s future. However, the slow pace of action has drawn criticism, with some accusing the government of dragging its feet, possibly due to the complex political dynamics at play.
The controversy has also intersected with a larger power struggle between the Tamil Nadu government and Governor R.N. Ravi. The Supreme Court’s April 2025 ruling, which curtailed the Governor’s role as Chancellor of state universities, has shifted the authority to appoint Vice-Chancellors to the state government. This decision, celebrated by the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) as a victory for state autonomy, has further complicated the situation at Periyar University. Governor Ravi’s accusation that the state used police to “arm-twist” Vice-Chancellors, including Jagannathan, underscores the politicization of the issue, with the university caught in a tug-of-war between state and central authorities.
The Broader Context: Governance in Indian Universities
The Periyar University scandal is not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of administrative challenges in India’s higher education system. Universities across the country have faced allegations of corruption, nepotism, and political interference, undermining their academic integrity and public trust. The controversy at Periyar University highlights several systemic issues:
- Financial Mismanagement: The alleged misuse of funds through initiatives like the PUTER Foundation raises questions about financial oversight in public universities. Without robust checks and balances, such entities can become vehicles for personal gain, as alleged in Jagannathan’s case.
- Caste-Based Discrimination: The accusation of casteist remarks against Jagannathan points to the persistent issue of caste discrimination in Indian academia. The invocation of the SC/ST Act underscores the need for institutions to foster inclusive environments and address grievances promptly.
- Commercialization of Education: The PMK’s concerns about unauthorized technology courses reflect a growing trend of universities partnering with private entities to offer programs, often without proper regulatory approval. This commercialization risks compromising academic standards and student welfare.
- Political Interference: The overlap between the Periyar University controversy and the state-Governor conflict illustrates how political dynamics can influence university governance. The Supreme Court’s ruling may empower states to reform university administration, but it also risks further politicization if not handled transparently.
Implications for Periyar University and Beyond
The ongoing saga at Periyar University threatens to tarnish its reputation as a leading institution in Tamil Nadu. Named after Periyar, whose legacy emphasizes rationalism and social equity, the university’s current troubles stand in stark contrast to its founding principles. The protests, legal battles, and investigations have created an atmosphere of uncertainty, potentially deterring prospective students and faculty. The state government’s high-level committee will play a crucial role in determining whether the university can restore trust and accountability.
The controversy also has broader implications for Tamil Nadu’s higher education landscape. With the state government now holding greater control over Vice-Chancellor appointments, there is an opportunity to implement reforms that prioritize merit, transparency, and academic excellence. However, the risk of political patronage looms large, and the government must navigate this challenge carefully to avoid further controversies.
Nationally, the Periyar University case serves as a cautionary tale for other institutions. It underscores the need for robust governance structures, independent oversight mechanisms, and protections against political interference. The role of Vice-Chancellors, as academic and administrative leaders, must be clearly defined to prevent abuses of power, while faculty and students should have avenues to voice concerns without fear of retaliation.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Accountability
As the investigation into Jagannathan’s actions continues, the focus remains on ensuring justice and restoring Periyar University’s integrity. The state government’s high-level committee must conduct a thorough and impartial probe, addressing not only the specific allegations against Jagannathan but also systemic issues within the university’s administration. Transparency in the process will be critical to rebuilding trust among stakeholders.
For students and faculty, the controversy is a reminder of the importance of active engagement in university governance. The Periyar University Employees Union’s protests and Elangovan’s legal action demonstrate the power of collective action in holding leaders accountable. Similarly, political parties like the PMK can play a constructive role by advocating for policies that protect students and uphold academic standards.
Ultimately, the Periyar University scandal is a test of Tamil Nadu’s commitment to its higher education system. By addressing the allegations against Jagannathan decisively and implementing reforms to prevent future misconduct, the state can reaffirm its dedication to Periyar’s legacy of justice and progress. As the academic community and the public await the outcome of the investigations, the hope is that Periyar University can emerge stronger, serving as a model of integrity and excellence in Indian higher education.
Sponsored
FACTS Transcripts
Apply for a University document anywhere
https://www.factstranscript.com
Quick Transcripts for popular Universities, check your University name now and get started. We help you to get your transcript application online which is accepted for use of IRCC.
No DD, NO Paperwork. 100% Authentic, Reliable.
FACTS Transcripts Charges · Reviews · Assam Universities · Home · Know your University
