The Bombay High Court today ruled that the appointment of Rajan Welukar as the vice chancellor of Mumbai University reflects lack of "application of mind" and violated the criteria stipulated for the job.

The observation came from the division bench of Justices P V Hardas and Anuja Prabhudesai. Another bench had earlier delivered a split verdict on a petition challenging Welukar's appointment, so it had been referred to the bench headed by Justice Hardas. The High Court today also ruled that it can use its 'special jurisdiction' to direct the selection committee to reconsider its decision of shortlisting Welukar.