Tirunelveli, August 14, 2025: A rare act of dissent unfolded during the 32nd convocation ceremony of Manonmaniam Sundaranar University (MSU) when PhD graduate Jean Joseph declined to receive her degree from Tamil Nadu Governor and University Chancellor RN Ravi, opting instead to accept it from Vice-Chancellor N Chandrasekar.
The Incident
The convocation, attended by over 650 graduates, proceeded as per protocol — each recipient stepping up to the Governor to receive their degree. However, when Jean Joseph’s turn came, she walked past Governor Ravi without greeting him and headed directly to the Vice-Chancellor to collect her degree. The moment was caught on camera and quickly went viral.
Who is Jean Joseph?
Jean Joseph hails from Nagercoil and is the wife of M Rajan, Deputy Secretary of the DMK’s Nagercoil town unit. Her political affiliation and her husband’s role in the DMK add further political weight to her action.
Her Statement
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Jean Joseph said:
“Governor RN Ravi has been acting against the interests of Tamil Nadu and Tamils. I did not want to receive my degree from him.”
Reactions and Political Context
The act immediately ignited political and social debate across Tamil Nadu. Supporters hailed her move as a courageous stand against what they perceive as the Governor’s interference in the state’s governance. Critics, however, argued that a university convocation was not the right stage for political protest.
University and Governor’s Response
The University authorities have yet to issue an official statement. The Governor’s office has also declined to comment on the incident.
Ongoing Tensions
This is not the first time Governor RN Ravi has faced visible dissent in Tamil Nadu. In recent months, his public appearances have often been met with boycotts and symbolic protests by students and political groups aligned with the state government.
Key Highlights
- Event: 32nd convocation ceremony of MSU, Tirunelveli
- Date: August 14, 2025
- Graduate: Jean Joseph, PhD scholar from Nagercoil
- Protest: Refused degree from Governor RN Ravi
- Accepted degree from Vice-Chancellor N Chandrasekar
- Reason: Opposition to Governor’s actions in Tamil Nadu
Stay tuned for further updates as the story develops.
