TNNLU Protests Subside After VC Prof V Nagaraj Issues Apology Over Dress Code Remarks

Protests at Tamil Nadu National Law University have eased following an apology issued by Vice-Chancellor V Nagaraj over his remarks concerning women students wearing shorts on campus.

In a statement dated April 19, Prof Nagaraj clarified that his comments were made while recalling his experience as a faculty member at National Law School of India University in 2016 during discussions on dress code issues. He stated that certain forms of attire might distract labourers working on campus, as well as visitors and vendors, given their diverse social and cultural backgrounds. He also noted that since the university is located within a village panchayat, students should exercise discretion in their dressing and general conduct to avoid unwanted attention or remarks from outsiders.

Addressing the controversy, the Vice-Chancellor added, “If my statements have hurt the sentiments of any members of the student community, faculty members or administrative staff of TNNLU, I have no hesitation to apologise for the same.”

Students had been protesting since April 16, objecting to the Vice-Chancellor’s comments, which they viewed as inappropriate and restrictive.

Meanwhile, Registrar Prof S.M. Balakrishnan announced an extension of holidays in view of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections 2026 and the university’s upcoming convocation scheduled for April 25. As per the official communication, the university remained closed from April 23 to April 25, considering that several students are first-time voters. Academic activities are set to resume on April 27.