Kerala University V-C Requests Governor’s Help to Resolve Administrative Stalemate

Quick Summary

• Kerala University Vice-Chancellor in-charge, Mohanan Kunnummal, met Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar in Thrissur to address an ongoing administrative crisis at the university.
• Delay in processing meaningful files, including approximately 2,000 degree certificate applications, is causing concern among affected sections.
• Dr. Kunnummal refuted claims of pending applications exceeding 2,700 and stated that only around “400-500” certificates require clearance. He expressed willingness to sign them if given office access.
• The Students Federation of India (SFI) has been accused by Dr. Kunnummal of obstructing his campus entry and causing disruptions without legitimate reasoning.
• Concerned about public safety amid potential campus violence, Dr. Kunnummal cited prevention measures as the reason for staying away from the university premises.
• He alleged resistance from Syndicate members who he claims are blocking his access to university files as part of a broader effort to undermine institutional functioning.
• During his meeting with the Governor (the Chancellor), Dr. kunnummal conveyed optimism for intervention and resolution but accused vested interests within the Syndicate of systematic obstruction.
• Confusion over Registrar K.S. Anil Kumar’s suspension persists; while Syndicate members reportedly revoked it during an unsanctioned meeting after Dr. kunnummal’s departure as chairperson, he insists that according to rules the suspension remains valid.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The administrative stalemate at kerala University raises pressing concerns about governance practices within higher education institutions in India. With thousands perhaps impacted by delays in degree issuance-a critical function for students’ career progression-the situation underscores how internal disputes can directly affect public welfare.

Drastic measures like preventing campus access or halting certain processes exacerbate institutional inefficiencies while placing undue stress on stakeholders such as students and staff reliant on timely administrative action.

The allegations against Syndicate members point toward deeper structural issues related to balancing power dynamics between academic management bodies and political affiliations or student groups like SFI-issues often seen across Indian universities.

Governor Arlekar’s involvement signals hope for a resolution but also highlights how systemic interventions may be needed to prevent similar occurrences nationwide where conflict curtails essential operations in education systems vital for India’s long-term growth goals.

Read more: Published – July 14, 2025