Madurai: Confusion prevails among university Vice-Chancellors in Tamil Nadu over whether to attend a two-day conference convened by Governor R N Ravi in Ooty on April 25-26, amidst an ongoing tussle between the Governor and Chief Minister M K Stalin on control over higher education.

The annual conference, organised by the Governor's office, is expected to focus on the role of artificial intelligence in advancing higher education. However, the backdrop of a legal and political row has left VCs unsure about participation.

The Supreme Court recently ruled in favour of the Tamil Nadu government in a case concerning the Governor's assent to higher education bills, bolstering the state's stance that the Chief Minister now holds key powers related to university administration.

Adding to the uncertainty, DMK MP T R Baalu's recent remarks suggesting that "rational" VCs would avoid attending the Governor's meet have been viewed as intimidating by some academic circles.

“The Governor appointed us, but it's the state government that controls salaries and infrastructure. This split authority has left us in a difficult position,” a senior Vice-Chancellor told PTI on condition of anonymity.

Meanwhile, the Centre is reportedly preparing a review petition against the Supreme Court's verdict, and Governor Ravi recently met Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar in New Delhi, further intensifying speculation.

No official directive has yet been issued by the Tamil Nadu government regarding VC participation in the conference. Many university heads say they will decide based on further instructions from the state and response from the Raj Bhavan.