Political Protest at Convocation: Tamil Nadu PhD Scholar Refuses Degree from Governor

At a convocation ceremony held at Manonmaniam Sundaranar University in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, a PhD scholar made a public statement against Governor RN Ravi. Jean Joseph, the scholar, declined to accept her degree from the Governor, opting instead to receive it from the Vice Chancellor, N Chandrashekhar. The ceremony was attended by around 800 degree recipients. Following the event, Joseph told reporters that her decision was motivated by her belief that the Governor had not contributed to the welfare of the state or its people. Her actions have gained attention due to her connection to a local DMK leader; she is the wife of Rajan, a deputy secretary of the DMK in the Nagercoil district. The event highlighted the continuing political friction between the DMK government and the Governor, who is viewed by many as an agent of the central government. His frequent disputes with the state administration have made him a controversial figure in Tamil Nadu. Conventionally, degree certificates are distributed before the official ceremony. However, Joseph disregarded this convention. She approached the dais, bypassed the Governor, and handed her certificate to the Vice Chancellor for the official photograph. Joseph said that because the Governor had taken actions against the State, she chose to receive her degree from the Vice-Chancellor. She also stated that she supports the ‘Dravidian Model’ of government, which she believes the Governor opposes.