RGUHS to award honorary doctorate to medical school chairman despite ongoing legal dispute

Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) has decided to confer honorary doctorate on AC Shanmugam, Chairman of RajaRajeswari Medical College and Hospital, Bengaluru, Sri Chamundeshwari Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Channapatna, and RajaRajeswari Group of Institutions.

Interestingly, the state government is fighting a legal battle with RajaRajeswari Medical College and Hospital over its affiliation.

Dr. Bhagavan BC, Vice-Chancellor of the University, said the decision to award the honorary doctorate was taken by a committee constituted by the Governor. “We have handed over the delivered profiles to the commission. We have no role in the selection process,” he said.

Minister of Medical Education Dr. Expressing displeasure over the decision, Sharan Prakash Patil said, “The legal case regarding the institution is still pending in the court. The honorary doctorate was decided by a committee appointed by the governor. Therefore, we cannot object to the list.”

Case background

RajaRajeswari Medical College and Hospital was affiliated to RGUHS. However, in 2019, the college applied to the educational and research institute Dr. MGR, the supposed University of Chennai.

The Madras High Court is hearing a case regarding its jurisdiction. The university received a stay order and continues to claim affiliation with the Educational and Research Institute of Dr. MGR.

Published – 12 Jun 2026 22:40 IST