Convocation Controversy: Minister Boycotts Madras University Event

Tamil Nadu's Higher Education Minister, Govi Chezhian, took a stand on Thursday by boycotting the University of Madras's 167th convocation, which was led by Governor R N Ravi.

Chezhian accused Governor Ravi of lacking the necessary qualifications to present degrees and of undermining the authority of the elected government. The minister criticized Ravi for actions perceived as disrespecting the state assembly and the Tamil community.

The convocation, set to award degrees for the 2024-25 academic year, went ahead despite these tensions and the absence of a Vice-Chancellor. Certificates were signed by the Higher Education Secretary P Shankar, sidestepping the controversy.