Chennai, 28 May (H.S.):Tamil Nadu Higher Education Minister P. Viswanathan on Thursday clarified his recent remarks on the appointment of Vice Chancellors in State-run universities and asserted that the TVK-led government would never compromise on Tamil Nadu’s rights and autonomy.

The Minister’s clarification came amid criticism from several political parties, including the DMK, VCK, CPI, and PMK, after comments he made in Madurai on Wednesday sparked controversy over the State’s stand on higher education administration.

Viswanathan had reportedly stated that the new government was not bound to continue every policy introduced by the previous regime, particularly those related to the Chief Minister serving as Chancellor of universities. The statement triggered strong reactions, with opposition leaders accusing the government of weakening Tamil Nadu’s long-standing position on State rights.

Addressing reporters in Chennai, the Higher Education Minister said his comments had been misunderstood and reiterated that protecting Tamil Nadu’s constitutional rights remained a top priority for the government.

“Our stand is very clear. The rights of the State are of utmost importance. We will never compromise on them,” he said.

He further stressed that the government remained committed to safeguarding the interests of every citizen and had no intention of surrendering any powers belonging to the State.

Explaining his earlier remarks, Viswanathan said the final decision regarding the appointment of Vice Chancellors would be taken by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay after consultations with Higher Education Department officials and Cabinet colleagues.

“The Chief Minister will take a final call after detailed discussions. What I made was only a general comment and not directed at any specific issue,” he explained.

The controversy revolves around amendments passed during the previous DMK government transferring the power to appoint Vice Chancellors from the Governor to the Chief Minister, a move projected as part of Tamil Nadu’s broader push for federal autonomy and State rights.

Reaffirming the government’s position, the Higher Education Minister said neither the TVK nor its allies would surrender Tamil Nadu’s rights under any circumstances.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman