The MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923

  
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 19 
CHAPTER I 
PRELIMINARY 
Short title and 1.(1) This Act may be called Madras oer Universi commencement. the Madras University Act, 1923. A mn. 
(2) This Section shall come into force at once. The 1923 as . . Amendedby 
rest of this Act shall come into force on such date or ayadras Act 
dates as the Local Government may, by notification, x7 of 1929, 
appoint, and different dates may be appointed for and as 
different provisions of this Act. further 
amended by 
Definiti 2. In this Act, unless there is (Adaptation n mi . . . . 
efmitions. —_ anything repugnant in the subject of Indian 
or context- Laws) 
Orders, 
‘(a) ‘Affiliated College’ means any college affiliated 1937 and 
to the University and providing courses of study for 1940 and as 
admission to the examinations for degrees of the /“”#er 
iversity and includes acollege deemed tobe affiliated @”°"4e University and inc udes a colleg the Madras 
to the University under the Madras University 4ct2of 
(Amendment) Act, 1966; 1966 
‘(aa) ‘Approved College’ means any college Act 2 of 
approved by the University and providing courses of 1966. 
study for admission to the examinations for titles and 
diplomas and the Pre-University examination of the 
University and includes a college deemed to be approved 
by the University under the Madras University 
(Amendment) Act, 1966; 
  
a The word ‘Central’ was substituted for the word Local by the 
Government. of India(Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order 1937 In this 
place and all other places where the word ‘Local’ occurred. The word 
Local was substituted for the word ‘Central’ by the Government of 
India(Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1940 in this place and all other 
places where the word ‘Central’ was substituted in 1937.
20 THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
Act 10 of 
1977 
Act XII 
of 1929 
Act 2 of 1966 
Act Xilof 
1929 
Act 2 of 1966 
™ (aaa) ‘autonomous College’ means any college 
designated as an autonomous college by Statues:” 
*(aaaa) ‘College’ means any college or any 
institution maintained or approved by or affiliated to the 
University and providing courses of study for admission 
to the examinations of the University; 
*(b), [c],[cc] omitted. 
(d) ‘Hostel’ means, a unit of residence for students 
of the University maintained or recognized by the 
University in accordance with the provisions of this Act. 
3(e) ‘Post-Graduate College’ means a University 
college or an affiliated college providing post-graduate 
courses of study leading up-to-the post-graduate degrees 
of the University. 
*(ee) Omitted. 
3(f) ‘Prescribed’ means, prescribed by [this Act, 
or] Statutes, Ordinance or Regulations. 
(g) ‘Principal’ means, the head of a *[College] 
5[(gg) ‘Professional College’ means, a college in 
which provided courses of study leading up-to-the 
professional degrees of the University). ] 
S[(h) ‘Registered Graduate’ means, a graduate 
registered under this Act.] 
  
1. This Clause was inserted by Tamil Nadu Act 10 of 1977. 
2. Substituted for the original by the Madras University Amendment 
Act 1966 (Madras Act 2 of 1966.) 
* Omitted by Madras Act 2 of 1966. 
These words were added by Section 2 (Madras Act XII of 1929) 
These words were substituted by Madras Act 2 of 1966 
This Clause was added by Section 2 (Madras Act XII of 1929) 
This Clause was substituted by Madras Act 2 of 1966. Dm 
sb 
Ww
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 21   
'[@i) ‘Statutes’, ‘Ordinances’ and ‘Regulations’ 
mean respectively the Statutes, Ordinances and 
Regulations of the University made under this Act.] 
*[(Gj) ‘Teachers’ means, such professors, assistant 
professors, readers, lecturers, librarians and other like 
persons as may be declared by the Statutes to be 
teachers.] 
(k) ‘Teachers of the University’ means, persons 
appointed by the University to give instructions on its 
behalf. 
(1) ‘University ‘ means, the University of Madras 
as reconstituted under this Act. 
3[(m) ‘University Centre’ means any area within the 
State of Madras except the area comprising the revenue 
districts of Madurai, Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli and 
Kanyakumari recognised by the State Government on 
the recommendation of the University and containing 
one or more colleges competent to engage in higher 
teaching and research work and to promote University 
life in a manner calculated to prepare for the institution 
of a new University. ] 
‘[(n) ‘University College’ means a college or a 
college combined with a research institute maintained 
by the University (whether instituted by it or not) and 
providing courses of study leading up to the post-graduate 
and professional degrees; | 
5[(0) ‘University Laboratory’ means, a laboratory 
maintained by the University, (whether instituted by it 
or not) and intended for carrying on and advancement 
of research work; ] 
1 & 2 These Clauses were substituted by the Madras University 
Amendment Act 1966 (Madras Act 2 of 1966.) 
3,4 & 5 These Clauses were substituted by the Madras University 
Amendment Act 1966 (Madras Act 2 of 1966.) 
  
Act 2 
of 1966 
Act 2 
of 1966
22 THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 
'T(p) ‘University Professor’ , “University Reader’ or Act 2 of 
1966 “University Lecturer’ means Professor, Reader or 
Lecturer respectively appointed as such by the 
University;] 
2I(q) ‘University Library’ means a library 
maintained by the University whether instituted by it or 
not.] 
  
1 & 2 These Clauses were substituted by the Madras University 
Amendment Act 1966 (Madras Act 2 of 1966.)
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 23   
CHAPTER II 
THE UNIVERSITY 
3.(1) The first Chancellor, Pro-Chancellor and Vice- 
Chancellor of the University and 
the first members of the Senate, 
the Syndicate, [and] the 
Academic Council, '[**] and all persons who may 
hereafter become such officers or members so long as 
they continue to hold such office or membership are 
hereby constituted a body corporate by the name of the 
University of Madras. 
The University 
(2) The University shall have perpetual succession 
and a common seal and shall sue and be sued by the 
name of the University of Madras. 
4. As from the date on which Section 3 and this 
section are brought into operation 
the Chancellor shall cease to 
exercise his functions under any 
Act or Acts heretofore in force, and the Vice-Chancellor 
and all Fellows and Honorary Fellows of the University 
of Madras as constituted and incorporated by any Act or 
Acts heretofore in force shall cease to be the Vice- 
Chancellor, Fellows and Honorary Fellows of the 
University respectively. 
Vacation of 
Fellowship. 
*(4-A. The University shall have the following 
powers, namely:- 
(1) to provide for instruction and training in 
such branches of learning as it may think fit and 
Act VII of 
1923 and 
Act XII of 
1929 
Act VI of 
1929 
Act XI of 
1929, 
  
1 The words “and the Council of Affiliated Colleges” were omitted by 
Section 3 of the Madras University (Amendment) Act. 1929 (Madras Act XII of 
1929) 
2 This section was inserted by Section 4 ibid.
24 THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
Act XII of 
1929. 
As amended 
by Act XXVI 
of 1943 and 
as further 
amended by 
Act 2 of 
1966. 
Act 10 of 
1977 
to make provisions for research 
and for the advancement and 
dissemination of knowledge; 
Powers of the 
University 
(2) to establish, maintain and manage Institutes of 
Research; 
(3) to make such provision as will enable '[affiliated 
and approved Colleges] to undertake specialisation of 
studies and to organize common laboratories, libraries 
and other equipment for research work; 
(4) to institute professorships, readerships, 
lecturerships and any other teaching post required by 
the University and to appoint persons to such 
professorships, Associate Professorships, readerships, 
lecturerships and other teaching posts; 
(5) to institute degrees, titles, diplomas and other 
academic distinctions; 
(6) to hold examinations and to confer degrees, 
titles, diplomas and other academic distinctions on 
persons who 
(a) shall have pursued an approved course of study 
in a University College or laboratory or in ‘[an affiliated 
or approved College] unless exempted therefrom in the 
manner prescribed by the Statutes and shall have passed 
the prescribed examinations of the University; or 
(b) shall have carried on research under conditions 
prescribed; 
2(6-A) to confer degrees, titles, diplomas and other 
academic distinctions on persons who shall have pursued 
an approved course of study in an autonomous college; 
  
1 Words substituted by the Madras University Amendment Act 1966 
(Madras Act 2 of 1966) 
2 This Clause was inserted by Tamil Nadu Act 10 of 1977.
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 25   
(7) to confer honorary degrees or other distinction 
under conditions prescribed; 
1[(8) to institute, maintain and manage University 
colleges, laboratories, libraries, museums and other 
institutions necessary to carry out the object of the 
University;] 
2[(9) to affiliate colleges to the University as 
affiliated professional or post-graduate colleges under 
conditions prescribed and to withdraw affiliation from 
colleges. | 
3[(9-A) to approve colleges providing courses of 
study for admission to the examinations for titles and 
diplomas and the Pre-University examination of the 
University under conditions prescribed and to withdraw 
such approval;] 
4(9-B) to designate any college as an autonomous 
college with the concurrence of the State Government 
in the manner and under conditions prescribed and to 
cancel such designation; 
5(10) to recommend to the Local Government the 
recognition of °(any area within the State of Tamil Nadu 
except the area comprising the revenue Districts of 
Madurai, Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli and 
Kanyakumari] Thanjavur as a University Centre]; 
(11) to establish, maintain and manage hostels, to 
recognize hostels not maintained by the University and 
to withdraw recognition therefrom; 
  
1 & 2 Clause substituted for the original by the Madras University 
Amendment Act 1966 (Madras Act 2 of 1966.) 
3 & 5 Clauses substituted by the Madras University Amendment Act 
1966 (Madras Act 2 of 1966) 
4 This Clause was substituted by Tamil Nadu Act 10 of 1977. 
6 Substituted for original by the Madras University Amendment 
Act 1966 . 
Act 10 
of 1977 
Act 2 of 
1966 
Act XH of 
1929.
26 THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
Act 2 of 
1966 
Act 2 of 
1966 
Act 2 of 
1966 
Act 2 of 
1966 
'[(12) to institute and award fellowships, travelling 
fellowships, scholarships, studentships, bursaries, 
exhibitions, medals and prizes.] 
*[(12-A) to hold and manage endowments and other 
properties and funds of the University and to raise loans 
required for the purposes of this Act;] 
(13) to fix fees and to demand and receive such 
fees as may be prescribed; 
(14) to create and manage an affiliated college fund; 
(15) to make grants from the funds of the University 
for the maintenance of a University Training Corps; 
(16) to exercise such control over the students of 
the University through the colleges as will secure their 
health and well-being; 
3[(16-A) to institute and maintain a University 
Extension Board;] 
(17) to institute and provide funds for the 
maintenance of- 
(a) A Publication Bureau; 
(b) An Employment Bureau; 
(c) Students’ Unions; 
‘((d) University Athletic Clubs: and 
(e) Other similar associations. | 
5[(18) to encourage co-operation among the 
colleges, laboratories and Institutes in the University 
1 & 2 Substituted for original by the Madras University Amendment 
  
Act 1966. 
3 New Clause inserted by the Madras University Amendment Act 
1966. 
4 Words Substituted by the Madras University Amendment Act 
1966. 
5 Substituted for original by the Madras University Amendment 
Act 1966.
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 27   
and co-operate with other Universities and other 
authorities in such manner and for such purposes as the 
University may determine]; and 
(19) generally to do all such other acts and things 
as may be necessary or desirable to further the objects 
of the University. 
115. (1) No person shall be qualified for election 
as a member of any of the 
authorities of the University, if, on 
the date of nomination or election, 
he is - 
Disqualification 
for membership 
(a) of unsound mind, a deaf-mute or suffering from 
leprosy; 
(b) an applicant to be adjudicated insolvent or an 
undischarged. insolvent; 
(c) sentenced by a criminal court to imprisonment 
for any offence involving moral turpitude. 
(2) In case of dispute of doubt, the Syndicate shall 
determine whether a person is disqualified under sub- 
section and its decision shall be final.] 
*[5-A. Restriction for election or nomination to 
Senate, Syndicate and Academic Council in certain cases 
[1] notwithstanding anything contained in Sections 14, 
18 or 23, any person who has completed two terms of 
three years each, continuously in any one or two of the 
following authorities of the University namely:-** 
(i) the Senate 
(ii) the Syndicate and 
  
1 Substituted for original by the Madras University Amendment 
Act 1966. 
* This Clause was inserted by the Tamil Nadu Universities Law 
(Amendment Act, 1997 (Act No.41 of 1998) 
Act 2 of 
1966
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
Act XII of 
1929 and 
Act 2 of 
1966 
(iii) the Academic Council 
Shall be eligible, after a period of three years has elapsed 
from the date of his ceasing to be such member, for 
election or nomination to any of the above mentioned 
authorities. 
Provided that for the purpose of this Sub-section, 
if a person was elected or nominated to one authority 
and such person became a member of another authority 
by virtue of the membership in the first mentioned 
authority, the period for which he held office in the first 
mentioned authority alone shall be taken into account. 
(2) Nothing in sub-section (1) shall have application 
in respect of- 
(i) ex-officio members referred to in Section 14(a), 
but not including members of the Syndicate who are not 
otherwise members of the Senate referred to in item (10), 
(ii) ex-officio members referred to in Section 18(a), 
and 
(iii) ex-officio members referred to in Section 23(a), 
but not including members of the Syndicate who are not 
otherwise members of the Academic Council referred 
to in item (5).” 
'T6. No attendance at instruction given in any 
(college or institution) other than 
Attendance that conducted, *(affiliated to or 
qua ifying or approved by the University) shall University . . . qualify for admission to any examinations examinations of the University.] 
  
1 This Section was substituted for the original by Section 6 of the 
Madras University (Amendment) Act, 1929 (Madras Act XII of 
1929) 
2 & 3 Words substituted by the Madras Act 2 of 1966.
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 29   
'6-A. Colleges in the University area not to be 
affiliated to any other University and recognition of 
institutions by the University;- 
(1) No college within the University area shall be 
affiliated to any University established by or under any 
law in force other than the University of Madras. 
(2) No Institution affiliated to, or associated with, 
or maintained by, any other University established by or 
under any law in force shall be recognised by the 
University for any purpose except with the prior approval 
of the Government and the concerned University. 
(3) Notwithstanding anything contained in any other 
law for the time being in force, any affiliation or 
recognition granted by any other University established 
by, or under any law in force to any institution within 
the University area, prior to the date of publication of 
the Madras University and Madurai-Kamaraj University 
(Amendment) Ordinance, 1983 in the Tamil Nadu 
Government Gazette, shall be deemed to be withdraw 
on and from the said date. 
Explanation:- For the purpose of this Section, 
“University area” means the area comprising the districts 
of Madras, Chengalpattu, North Arcot, South Arcot, 
Salem and Dharmapuri in the State of Tamil Nadu.] 
7. (1) The Provincial Government shall have the 
right to cause an inspection to be 
Visitation. made by such person or persons 
as it may direct, of the 
University, its buildings, laboratories, libraries, 
museums, workshops and equipment and of any 
institutions maintained, recognised or approved by or 
affiliated to the University and also of the teaching and 
  
1 This Clause was inserted by Tamil Nadu Act 46 of 1983. 
Act 46 of 
1983 
Act VI 1923 
and Act XII 
of 1929, as 
further 
amended by 
theG.O.I. 
(Adaptationof 
Indian 
LansyOrdas 187 
and1940.
30 THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
Act 2 of 
1966 
other work conducted by the University and to cause an 
inquiry to be made in respect of any matter connected 
with the University. The Provincial Government shall 
in every case give notice to the University of its intention 
to cause such inspection or inquiry to be made and the 
University shall be entitled to be represented thereat. 
(2) The Provincial Government shall communicate 
to the Senate and to the Syndicate its views with 
reference to the results of such Inspection or inquiry and 
may, after ascertaining the opinion of the Senate and the 
Syndicate thereon advise the University upon the action 
to be taken. 
(3) The Syndicate shall report to the Provincial 
Government the action, if any, which is proposed to be 
taken or has been taken upon the results of such 
inspection or inquiry. Such report shall be submitted with 
the opinion of the Senate thereon and within such time 
as the Provincial Government may direct. 
(4) Where the Senate or the Syndicate does not 
within a reasonable time take action to the satisfaction 
of the Provincial Government, the Provincial 
Government may, after considering any explanation 
furnished or representation made by the Senate or the 
Syndicate, issue such directions as it may think fit and 
the Senate and the Syndicate shall comply with such 
directions. ‘(In the event of the Senate or the 
Syndicate or both not Complying with such directions 
within such time as may fixed in that behalf by the State 
Government, the State Government shall have the power 
to take such action as they think necessary for securing 
compliance with such directions.) 
  
1. Inserted by Madras Act 2 of 1966.
  
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 31 
Officers of the 1[8. The following shall be the Act XII of 
University officers of the University:- 1929. 
(1) The Chancellor; 
(2) The Pro-Chancellor; 
(3) The Vice-Chancellor; 
(4) The Registrar; and 
(5) Such other persons as may be declared by the 
Statues to be officers of the University. ] 
Act VI of 
9. (1) 2[The Governor of Tamil Nadu shall be the 1923 and 
Chancellor of the University.] He Act XII of 
The Chancellor Shall by virtue of his office be the 1929, as 
head of the University and ‘ter . . amended by 
President of the Senate and shall, when present, preside 4, ¢Q1 
at the meetings of the Senate and at any Convocation of (4daptation 
the University. of Indian 
Laws) 
(2) The Chancellor shall exercise such powers as_ Qrders, 
may be conferred on him under the provisions of this 1937 and 
(3) Where power is conferred upon the Chancellor 4ct 2 of 
to nominate persons to authorities, the Chancellor shall, 966 
to the extent necessary, nominate persons to represent 
3(interest) not otherwise adequately represented. 
10. “[(1) The Minister administering the subject Act 2 of 
of education in the Province of Madras 1966 The Pro- Chancellor for the time being shall be the Pro- 
Chancellor of the University. ] 
1. This Section was substituted for the original by Section 8 of the 
Madras University (Amendment) Act, 1929 (Madras Act XII of 
1929). 
2 & 4.This sub-section was substituted for the original by Section 10 
of the Madras University (Amendment) Act, 1929 (Madras Act 
XII of 1929), 
3. Words substituted for original by the Madras University 
Amendment Act 1966 (Madras Act 2 of 1966). 
 
32 THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
Act 2 of 
1966 
(2) In the absence of the Chancellor, or during the 
Chancellor’s inability to act, the Pro-Chancellor, shall 
exercise all the functions of the Chancellor. 
‘[11. (1) Every appointment of the Vice-Chancellor 
shall be made by the Chancellor 
The Vice- from out ofa panel of three names 
Chancellor recommended by the Committee 
referred to in sub-section (2). 
Such panel shall not contain the name of any Member 
of the said Committee. 
"Provided that if the Chancellor does not approve 
any of the persons in the panel so recommended by the 
Committee he may take steps to constitute another 
comumnittee, in accordance with sub-section (2), to give a 
fresh panel of three different names and shall appoint 
one of the persons named in the fresh panel as the Vice- 
Chancellor” 
(2) For the purpose of sub-section (1), the 
Committee shall consist of three persons of whom one 
shall be nominated by the Senate, one shall be nominated 
by the Syndicate and one shall be nominated by the 
Chancellor: 
Provided that the person so nominated shall not be 
a member of any of the authorities of the University. 
(3) The Vice-Chancellor shall hold office for a 
period of three years and shall be eligible for re- 
appointment for not more than two successive terms. 
(4) When any temporary vacancy occurs in the 
office of the Vice-Chancellor or if the Vice-Chancellor 
  
1. This section substituted by the Madras University Amendment 
Act 1966 (Madras Act 2 of 1966) 
2. Inserted by the Madras University (Amendment Act of 1992 (Act 
No. 1 of 1993)
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 33   
is, by reason of absence or for any other reason, unable 
to exercise the powers and perform the duties of his 
office, the syndicate shall, as soon as possible, make the 
requisite arrangements for exercising the powers and 
performing the duties of the Vice-Chancellor. 
(5) The Vice-Chancellor shall be a whole time 
officer of the University and shall be entitled to such 
emoluments, allowances and privileges as may be 
prescribed by the Statues. 
12. (1) The Vice-Chancellor shall be the principal 
executive officer of the University 
and shall in the absence of the 
Chancellor and Pro- Chancellor, 
preside at meetings of the 
Senate and at any Convocation of the University. 
He shall bea member ex-officio and \(Chairman of 
the Syndicate, the Academic Council and the Finance 
Committee) and shall be entitled to be present at and to 
address any meeting of any authority of the University 
but shall not be entitled to vote thereat unless he is a 
Member of the authority concerned. 
(2) It shall be the duty of the Vice-Chancellor to 
ensure that the provisions of this Act, the Statues, 
Ordinances and Regulations are faithfully observed and 
carried out and he may exercise all powers necessary 
for this purpose. 
Powers and 
duties of the 
Vice-Chancellor. 
(3) The Vice-Chancellor shall have power to 
convene Meetings of the senate, the Syndicate, *[the 
Academic Council and the Finance Committee. ] 
(4) (a) In any emergency which in the opinion of 
the Vice-Chancellor requires that immediate action 
  
1 & 2 Words substituted by the Madras University Amendment Act 1966 
(Madras Act 2 of 1966). 
Act VI of 
1923 and 
Act XII of 
1929 and 
Act 2 
of 1966. 
Act 2 of 
1966. 
Act X of 
1942
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
Act XI of 
1929 
Act 2 of 
1966 
should be taken, he may take such action with the 
sanction of the Chancellor or the Pro-Chancellor and 
shall as soon as may be thereafter report his action to the 
officer or authority who or which would have ordinarily 
dealt with the matter. 
(b) When action taken by the Vice-Chancellor under 
this Sub-section affects any person in the service of 
the University, such person shall be entitled to prefer an 
appeal to the Syndicate within thirty days from the 
date on which he has notice of such action. 
(5) The Vice-Chancellor shall give effect to the 
orders of the Syndicate regarding the appointment, 
dismissal and Suspension of the teachers of the 
University and its servants and shall exercise general 
control over the affairs of the University. 
(6) The Vice-Chancellor shall exercise such other 
powers as may be prescribed. 
1[12-A. (1) The Registrar shall be a whole-time paid 
officer of the University appointed 
The Registrar. by the Syndicate for such period 
and on such terms as may be 
prescribed by Statutes 
(2) The Registrar shall exercise such powers and 
perform such duties as may be prescribed. 
(3) In all suits and other legal proceedings by or 
against the University, the pleadings shall be signed and 
verified by the Registrar and all processes in such suits 
and proceedings shall be issued to, and served on, the 
Registrar. | 
  
1 This Section was added by Section 13 of the Madras University 
(Amendment) Act, 1929 (Madras Act XII of 1929). 
2 New Clause inserted by Madras Act 2 of 1966.
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 35   
Authorities of 13. The following shall be 
the University. authorities of the University: Act VII of 
1923 and 
(1) The Senate, Act XII of 
1929 and 
(2) The Syndicate, Act 2 of 
. : 1966 
(3) The Academic Council, 
(4) The Faculties, 
*(4-A) The Finance Committee, 
(5) The Boards of Studies, '(and) 
2(e*) 
3[(6) such other “(bodies) as may be declared by the 
Statues to be authorities of the University. ] 
  
* Inserted by the Madras University Amendment Act 1966. 
This word was inserted by Section 14 Act XII of 1929. 
The Clause “(6) the Council of the Affiliated Colleges, and” was 
omitted by Section 14 ibid. 
3. The figure ‘(6)’ was substituted for the ‘(7)’ by Section 14 ibid. 
4 This word was substituted for the word “authorities’ by Section 14 
ibid. 
Noe
36 THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
CHAPTER Il 
The Senate — Powers and Duties 
1[14.?[a] [The Senate shall consists of 
(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
14) 
(5) 
(6) 
(7) 
“[(7-A) 
(8) 
(9) 
(10) 
the following persons, namely; -] 
Ex-officio Members. 
The Chancellor; 
The Pro-Chancellor; 
The Vice-Chancellor; 
Omitted.] 
The Director of Collegiate Education, Madras; 
The Director of Secondary Education, Madras. 
The Director of Technical Education, Madras; 
The Director of Medical Education;] 
The Principals of affiliated colleges who have 
served as principals for not less than three years; 
Every whole-time University Professor in charge 
of a Department; and 
Members of the Syndicate who are not otherwise 
members of the Senate. 
Life Members 
5[(1) & (2) Omitted.] 
Other Members 
(1) Twenty members elected by registered graduates from among 
themselves in accordance with the system of proportional representation 
by means of the single transferable vote; 
  
1 & 2 This Section was substituted for the original by Section 15 of Madras Act XII of 
1929 and amended by Madras Act 2 of 1966. 
eA Rw 
This was omitted by Tamil Nadu Act 9 of 1980. 
This Clause was substituted by Tamil Nadu Act 42 of 1979. 
This was omitted by Tamil Nadu Act 11 of 1982. 
Now termed as “Chennai.”
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 37   
(2) Ten members elected by the Academic Council from among 
its own body of whom not less than five shall be teachers of affiliated 
colleges; 
(3) Six members elected by the Members of the Legislative 
Assembly of the State of Madras from among themselves in accordance 
with the system of proportional representation by means of the single 
transferable vote; 
(4) Three members elected by the Members of the Legislative 
Council of the State of Madras from among themselves in accordance 
with the system of proportional representation by means of the single 
transferable vote; 
(5) Three members elected by the principals of approval colleges 
from among themselves in accordance with the system of proportional 
representation by means of the single transferable vote; 
(6) One member elected by the headmasters of high schools in 
each of the following revenue districts, or groups of revenue districts, 
from among themselves, namely:- 
(a) Coimbatore and the Nilgiris; 
(b) Salem and Dharmapuri; 
(c) North Arcot; 
(d) Chingleput and Madras; 
(e) South Arcot; 
(f) Thanjavur; 
(g) Tiruchirapalli; 
(7) One member elected by the Councillors of the Municipal 
Corporation of Madras from among themselves;
38 THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
(8) One member elected by the chairman of municipal Councils 
and of Panchayat Union Councils in each revenue district in the State 
of Madras, except the area comprising the revenue districts of Madurai, 
Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari, from among such 
Chairman and the Members of Municipal Councils, Panchayat Union 
Councils and Panchayat in such revenue districts; and 
(9) Fifteen members nominated by the Chancellor of whom 
not less than ten shall be nominated to secure the representation of the 
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes not otherwise adequately 
represented. 
* ek Ok K 
14(b) (i) Save as otherwise provided, elected and nominated 
members of the Senate shall hold office for a period of three years and 
such members shall be eligible for re-election or re-nomination. 
(ii) Where a member is elected or nominated to the Senate to a 
casual vacancy, the period of office held for not less than one year by 
any such member shall be construed as a full period of three years for 
the purpose of this Clause. 
Explanation : For the purpose of this Clause, the expression 
“period” shall include the period held prior to the date of the publication 
of the Tamil Nadu Universities Laws (Second Amendment) Act, 1991, 
in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazettee”. 
Provided that a member of the Legislative Assembly of the State 
of Tamil Nadu shall cease to be a member of the Senate from the date 
on which he ceases to be a member of the Legislative Assembly of the 
State of Tamil Nadu. 
  
* Items 10 to 14(a) are omitted under “Other Members” (Vide Page 24 of the University 
Calendar Vol.1, 1964-65). 
** — This Clause was inserted by the Tamil Nadu Universities Law (Amendment) Act, 
1997 (Act No 41 of 1998)
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 39   
Provided further that where an elected or nominated member 
of the Senate is appointed temporarily to any of the office by virtue of 
which he is entitled to be a member of the Senate ex-officio, he shall, 
by notice in writing signed by him and communicated to the Vice- 
Chancellor within seven days from the date of his taking charge of his 
appointment, choose whether he will continue to be a member of the 
Senate by virtue of his election or nomination or whether he will vacate 
office as such member and become a member ex-officio by virtue of 
his appointment and the choice shall be conclusive. On failure to make 
such choice, he shall be deemed to have vacated his office as an elected 
or nominated member. 
Explanation: For the removal of doubts, it is hereby declared for 
the time being in force or in any judgement, decree or order of any 
court, every person who has been elected to the Senate of the Madras 
University, in his capacity as a member of the Legislative Assembly 
and who had ceased to be a member of the Legislative Assembly but 
holding office as a member of the Senate immediately (before the date 
of the publication of this Act in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazettee, 
shall cease to be a member of the Senate of the University on the date 
of the publication of this Act in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette.) 
Every person who ceases to be a member of the Senate by reason 
of the operation of this Act shall cease to be a member of the Syndicate, 
Academic Council or any other authority of the University of which 
he may happen to be a member by virtue of his membership of the 
Senate. 
On failure to make such choice, he shall be deemed to have vacated 
his office as an elected or nominated member. 
(c) When a person ceases to be a member of the Senate he shall 
cease to be a member of any of the authorities of the University of 
which he may happen to be member by virtue of his membership of 
the Senate.
40 THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
Act XI of 
1929 
Act 2 of 
1966 
1T15. The Senate shall be supreme governing body 
of the University and shall have The Senate to be . . power to review the action of the 
the Supreme Syndicate and of the Academic Governing body yn Council save where the Syndicate 
and the Academic Council have acted in accordance with 
powers conferred on them under this Act, the statutes, 
the Ordinances or the Regulations and shall exercise 
all the powers of the University not otherwise provided 
for and all powers requisite to give effect to the provisions 
of this Act; 
Provided that if any question arises whether the 
Syndicate or the Academic Council has acted in 
accordance with such powers as aforesaid or not, the 
question shall be decided by a resolution passed by two- 
thirds of the number of the members present and voting 
at a meeting of the Senate and the decision shall be final. | 
2[16. In particular and 
without prejudice to the generality 
of the powers 
Powers of the 
Senate. 
(1) to make Statues and amend or repeal the same; 
(2) to modify or cancel Ordinances and Regulations 
in the manner prescribed by this Act; 
(3) to encourage co-operation among University 
colleges and laboratories, affiliated colleges and 
approved colleges; 
(4) to provide for instruction and training in such 
branches of learning as it may think fit; 
  
1. This Section was substituted for the original by Section 16 of the 
Madras University (Amendment) Act, 1929 (Madras Act XII of 
1929) 
2. This Section was substituted for the original by the Madras 
University Amendment Act, 1966 (Madras Act 2 of 1966)
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 41   
(5) to institute and maintain institutes of research, 
University colleges, University laboratories, libraries and 
museums; 
(6) to prescribe in consultation with the Academic 
Council the conditions for approving colleges or 
institutions in which provision is made for courses of 
study for admission to the Pre-University examination 
or for the preparation of students for Titles or diplomas 
of the University and to withdraw such approval; 
(7) to provide for research and advancement and 
dissemination of knowledge; 
(8) to Institute, after consultation with the Academic 
council, professorships, readerships, lecturerships, and 
any other teaching posts required by the University; 
(9) to prescribe after consultation with the Academic 
Council, the conditions for affiliating colleges to the 
University and to withdraw affiliation from colleges; 
1[(9-A) to prescribe in consultation with the 
Academic Council, the manner in which and the 
conditions subject to which a college may be designated 
as an autonomous college and such designation may be 
cancelled;] 
(10) to provide, after consultation with the 
Academic Council, such lectures and instructions for 
students of University Colleges, affiliated colleges and 
approved colleges as the Senate may determine and also 
to provide for lectures and instructions to persons not 
being students of colleges and to grant diplomas to them; 
(11) to provide for the inspection of all colleges 
and hostels; 
  
1. This Clause was inserted by Tamil Nadu Act 10 of 1977 
Act 10 of 
1977
42 THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
(12) to institute, degrees, titles, diplomas and other 
academicdistinctions; 
(13) to confer degrees, titles, diplomas and other academic 
distinctions on persons who- 
(a) shall have pursued an approved courses of study in a University 
college or laboratory or in an affiliated or approved College or have 
been exempted therefrom in the manner prescribed and shall have 
passed the prescribed examinations of the University; or 
(b) shall have carried on research under conditions prescribed; 
(14) to confer honorary degrees or other distinctions on the 
recommendations of not less than two-thirds of the members of the 
Syndicate; 
(15) to establish and maintain hostels; 
(16) to institute, after consultation with the Academic Council, 
fellowships, travelling fellowships, scholarships, studentships, 
bursaries, exhibitions, medals and prizes; 
(17) to prescribe the fees to be charged for the approval and 
affiliation of colleges, for admission to the examination, degrees and 
diplomas of the University, for the registration of graduates, for the 
renewal of such registration and for all or any of the purposes specified 
in Section 4-A; 
(18) to consider and take such action as it may deem fit on the 
annual report, the annual accounts and the financial estimates; 
(19) to institute, after consultation with the Academic Council, a 
University Extension Board and to maintain it; 
(20) to institute, after consultation with the Academic Council, a 
Publication Bureau, Students Unions, Employment Bureau and 
University Athletic Clubs and other similar Associations and to maintain 
them;
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 43   
(21) to enter into any agreement with the Central 
or any State Government or with a private management 
for assuming the management of any institution and for 
taking over its properties and liabilities or for any other 
purposes not repugnant to the provisions of this Act; 
(22) to make Statutes regulating the method of 
election to the authorities of the University and the 
procedure at the meeting of the senate, the syndicate and 
other authorities of the University and the quorum of 
members required for the transaction of business by the 
authorities of the University other than the Senate; 
(23) to recommend to the State Government the 
recognition of any area within the State of Madras except 
the area comprising the revenue districts of Madurai, 
Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli, and Kanyakumari, as a 
University Centre; 
(24) to co-operate with other Universities, other 
academic authorities and colleges in such manner and 
for such purposes as it may determine; and 
(25) to delegate such of its powers as it may deem 
fit to any authority or authorities of the University 
constituted under this Act. 
17. 1(1) The Senate shall meet at least twice a year 
on dates to be fixed by the Vice- 
Chancellor one of such meetings 
shall be called the annual meeting. 
The Senate may also meet at 
such other times as it may, from time to time, determine. 
Meetings of 
the Senate. 
(2) ?[Twenty-Five] members of the Senate shall be 
the quorum for a meeting of the Senate. 
1. This sub-section was substituted for the original by Section 18 of 
the Madras University [Amendment] Act, 1929 [Madras Act XII 
of 1929.] 
2. Words substituted by the Madras Act 2 of 1966 
  
Act VII of 
1923 and 
Act XII of 
1929.
44 THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
‘Provided that such quorum shall not be required at a Convocation 
of the University or a meeting of the Senate, held for the purpose of 
conferring degrees, titles, diplomas or other academic distinctions. 
(3) The Vice-Chancellor may, whenever he thinks fit, and shall, 
upon a requisition in writing signed by not less than 35 members of 
the Senate, convene a special meeting of the Senate. 
  
1. This proviso was added by the Madras University (Amendment) Acct III of 1942.
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 45   
Act VI of 
1923 and 
Act XII of 
1929 and 
Act 2 of 
1966 
CHAPTER IV 
THE SYNDICATE 
18. (a) The Syndicate shall, in addition to the 
Vice-Chancellor, consist of the 
The Syndicate. following persons, namely:- 
Ex-officio Members 
21) The Secretary to the Government in- 
charge of Education. 
4(1-A) The Secretary to the Government in-charge 
of Health and Family Welfare- 
5(1-AA) The Secretary to the Government in-charge 
of Law 
(1-(AAA) The Director of Higher Education, 
Madras 
(2) The Director of Technical Education, Madras 
3(3) The Director of Medical Education and 
§(4) The Director of Legal Studies 
7(aa) In case the Secretary to Government in-charge 
of (Higher) Education, or the Secretary to the 
Government in-charge of Health and Family Welfare or 
the Secretary to Government in-charge of Law is 
unable to attend the meetings of the Syndicate for any 
reason, he may depute any officer of his Department 
  
1 Sub-section substituted by the Madras Act 2 of 1966. 
2 This clause was added by the Tamil Nadu Act 9 of 1980. 
3 This sub-section was added by the Tamil Nadu Act 42 of 1979 
4 to 7 This clause was added by the Tamil Nadu Act 75 of 1986 
6 & 7 Tamil Nadu Universities Laws (Amendment Act), 1986 (Tamil 
Nadu Act, 75 of 1986)
46 THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
not lower in rank than that of Deputy Secretary to Government to 
attend the meetings. 
Other Members 
(1) Six members elected by the Senate from among its members. 
(2) Five members elected by the Academic Council from among 
its members of whom four shall be teachers of affiliated colleges and 
the remaining shall be a teacher of an approved college; 
(3) Three members nominated by the Chancellor; 
(4) Three University professors from among the Heads of 
Departments of study and research, schools of excellence or centres 
of advanced studies, nominated by the Chancellor on the recommen- 
dation of the Vice-Chancellor, by rotation among such Departments, 
Schools and Centres. 
(5) One University Reader nominated by the Vice-Chancellor by 
rotation according to seniority, and 
(6) One University lecturer nominated by the Vice-Chancellor 
by rotation according to seniority. 
*[b](i) Save as otherwise provided, elected and nominated mem- 
bers of the Syndicate shall hold office for a period of three years and 
such members shall be eligible for re-election or re-nomination. 
(ii) Where a member is elected or nominated to the Syndicate to 
a casual vacancy, the period of office held for not less than one year 
by any such member shall be construed as a full period of three years 
for the purpose of this clause. 
Explanation : For the purpose of this Clause, the expression 
“period shall include the period held prior to the date of the   
1, This Clause was substituted by the Tamil Nadu Act 19 of 1982 
2. This Clause was inserted by Tamil Nadu Act VI of 1923 (Act No.7 of 1954) 
3. This Clause was subscribed by the Tamil Nadu universities laws(Amendment) Act 
1991 (Act 9 of 1992) 
* This Clause was inserted by the Tamil Nadu Universities Law (Amendment) Act, 
1997 (Act No.41 of 1997)
THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923 47   
publication of the Tamil Nadu Universities Law 
(Second Amendment) Act, 1991, in the Tamil Nadu 
Government Gazette”. 
Provided also that where an elected or nominated 
member of the Syndicate is appointed temporarily to any 
of the offices by virtue of which he is entitled to be a 
member of the Syndicate ex-officio, he shall, by notice 
in writing signed by him and communicated to the 
Vice-Chancellor within Seven days from the date of his 
taking charge of his appointment, choose whether he 
will continue to be a member of the syndicate by virtue 
of his election or nomination or whether he will vacate 
office as such member and become a member ex-offcio 
by virtue of his appointment and the choice shall be 
conclusive. On failure to make such choice, he shall be 
deemed to have vacated his office as an elected or nomi- 
nated member ; 
'[Provided also that a member of the Syndicate shall 
cease to be a member if he subsequently becomes a 
whole-time University Professor, [University Reader, 
University Lecturer or whole-time teacher of the Uni- 
versity]. 
(c) When a person ceases to be a member of the 
Syndicate, he shall cease to be a member of any of the 
authorities of the University of which he may happen to 
be a member by virtue of his membership of the 
Syndicate. 
Powers of the *[19. The Syndicate shall 
Syndicate. have the following powers, 
namely ;- 
  
1 This clause was omitted. 
2 This section was substituted for the original by Section 20 of the 
Madras University Amendment Act, 1929, (Madras Act XII of 1929)- 
Vide also Amendment Act, 1943 (No XXVII of 1943)-Sec.5, 
Act 2 of 
1966. 
Act XI of 
1929
48 THE MADRAS UNIVERSITY ACT, 1923   
Act XII of 
1929 
Amended 
by Act 2 
of 1966. 
(a) to make Ordinances and amend or repeal the 
same ; 
(b) to hold, control and administer the properties 
and funds of the University ; 
(c) to direct the form, custody and use of the 
common seal of the University ; 
(d) to regulate and determine all matters 
concerning the University in accordance with this Act, 
the Statutes, the Regulations and the Ordinances ; 
(e) to frame the financial estimates of the 
University and submit the same to the Senate ; 
(f) to administer all properties and funds placed at 
the disposal of the University for specific purposes ; 
(g) to appoint the University Professors and 
Readers '[and Lecturers] and the Teachers and servants 
of the University, fix their emoluments, if any, define 
their duties and the conditions of their service; an

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