V H BASKARAN Vs. UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Though the W.V.M.P.No.2086 of 2003 and W.P.M.P.No.33660 of 2003 are listed, by consent of parties, the main writ petition itself is taken up for hearing and disposal.

(2.) The matter relates to the election of a candidate to the Syndicate of the University of Madras viz., the first respondent. The said vacancy is to be filled up from among the members of the Academic Council. There are about 217 Academic Council members. The Principals of all colleges affiliated to the first respondent University are ex-officio members in addition to other members. For the said vacancy, election notification was issued on 22.8.2003. The election was scheduled to be held on 27.9.2003. Though the term of office is for a period of three years, in the case in question, it is only for a residual period from 27.9.2003 to 25.9.2004.

(3.) Pursuant to the election notification, four candidates including the petitioner, the second and third respondents filed their nominations. The nomination of one Dr.S.Gopalan was rejected leaving three valid nominations. The second respondent became successful and was declared elected in the election held on 27.9.2003. The petitioner, who was also one of the candidates contested the election, has filed this writ petition questioning the election of the second respondent by seeking a declaration, declaring the election held on 27.9.2003 is illegal, arbitrary and contrary to the rules and regulations of the University.