A PhD scholar from Manonmaniam Sundaranar University in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, sparked a controversy during a convocation ceremony by refusing to accept her degree from Governor RN Ravi. Jean Joseph, the scholar, instead received her degree from the university’s Vice Chancellor, N Chandrashekhar, who was present alongside the Governor. The event was for approximately 800 graduating scholars. After the convocation, Jean Joseph addressed the media, clarifying that her decision to reject the Governor’s role in the degree presentation was based on her view that he had not served the people of Tamil Nadu. Her action has drawn attention, also because she is married to a local DMK leader. This event has amplified the existing political conflict between the DMK government and the Governor, who is often seen as an emissary of the central government. The Governor’s repeated clashes with the state government have also contributed to his unpopularity. According to standard protocol, degree certificates are typically distributed before the main event. However, Joseph deviated from this norm. She bypassed Governor Ravi on the dais and chose to give her certificate to the Vice Chancellor to pose for a photograph. Joseph informed media personnel that because the Governor was perceived to be working against the State and its people, she chose to receive the degree from the Vice-Chancellor. Moreover, she affirmed her commitment to the ‘Dravidian Model’ of government, which she believes the Governor opposes.
