Madurai Kamaraj University staff and local functionaries of AIADMK gave a rousing reception to Kalyani Mathivanan, who returned to her office on Monday.
Ms. Mathivanan returned to Madurai after the Supreme Court ordered an interim stay on the Madras High Court Bench’s judgment which had set aside her appointment as Vice-Chancellor on the ground that she had served only as an Associate Professor and not as a Professor, as required under UGC regulations, to become eligible for the post of VC.
On Monday, more than 100 supporters gathered at the airport here, where she, along with her daughter, landed at around 9.30 a.m.
After accepting bouquets and garlands from her supporters, she left for the university in her official vehicle, in a convoy of around 30 cars. She was accorded a traditional welcome with ‘poorna kumbam’ at the MKU.

After accepting the wishes of AIADMK functionaries, she cut a cake embossed with the ruling party flag. She then walked up to her office amid a festive atmosphere. All along the way, around 175 students of MKU Nursery and Primary School, and staff of the university showered flowers on her. A horde of banners welcoming her were erected on the campus.
As Ms. Mathivanan reached the first floor of the administrative building where her office is located, she thanked her supporters. She was accompanied by party functionaries and university staff to her office, where she paid respects to the portrait of her father former VC M.D.K. Kuthalingam. Slogans were raised in support of her.
“Do what you want madam. Five hundred families are here to support you,” shouted her supporters in chorus.
“I have lot of work to do. That is why I am back,” she told the staff who called on her to offer congratulations.
However, she refused to address the media stating that the matter is sub judice. When asked what is on the immediate agenda on academic development, she said she would meet the press soon.
“I do not want to say anything now. Give me some time,” she added.