Wed Apr 30 20:43:28 UTC 2025: ## Madras University Faces Budget Controversy After Unprecedented Approval Process

**Chennai, May 1, 2025** – The University of Madras is embroiled in controversy over its 2025-26 budget, which was approved through an unprecedented in-circulation process after significant government cuts. The budget, which reveals a ₹149 crore deficit (a slight increase from last year’s ₹146 crore deficit), was not presented to the senate in the usual March timeframe. Instead, the registrar circulated the document by email just hours before a deadline, urging members to approve it to ensure timely salary disbursements.

This unconventional approach has sparked widespread dissent. At least 30 senate members have voiced their opposition, citing a 50% reduction in allocations for student facilities and guest faculty. This is particularly concerning given the university’s already severe faculty shortage – currently employing only 184 teachers out of a required 540, and relying heavily on guest lecturers for over 15 years.

The dissent also highlights concerns over the university’s ambitious revenue generation plan, which relies heavily on its Institute of Distance Education (IDE) despite issues with course material delivery and insufficient faculty. Critics argue that the minimal fees charged by the university, compared to private institutions, make the ambitious revenue targets unrealistic.

Further fueling the controversy, the registrar’s request for approval failed to mention the earlier dissent expressed by six syndicate members, including two gubernatorial appointees, regarding the budget cuts. The unusual process and substantial cuts have prompted calls for increased government funding, especially now that the Chief Minister holds the Chancellor position. The university’s handling of the budget has raised serious questions about transparency and financial management within the institution.

Read More