From the Mysore Government orders relating to succession in several Mathas, it is clear that even when the Acharya was alive, nominating a disciple to succeed later required Government approval.
This approval was necessary in order to protect their properties, ensure smooth administration, maintain eligibility for tasdik and other royal grants and avoid disputes after succession. It also allowed the Government to check whether the chosen disciple was properly trained and was in line with the traditions of the Matha. This Statutory rule for succession in mathas was strictly followed since these were public and endowed institutions and not only because of vacancy.
