Calicut University Appoints New Faculty Deans

Quick Summary

• Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, acting as the Chancellor of the University of Calicut, has nominated new Deans for various academic faculties.
• The appointments follow the conclusion of tenures of previous incumbents.
• Newly appointed Deans include:

– K. Mohammed Haneefa (Humanities)
– Sam Thomas (Commerce and Management)
– K. Abdul Gafoor (Education)
– V. Vinod (Engineering)
– Damodar Prasad (Journalism)
– R.V.M.Divakaran (Language and Literature)
– J. Gireesh Kumar (Law)
– M. Mohammed Mustafa (Science).

• Opposition-aligned academics alleged that seven out of eight appointees are pro-Left individuals, citing possible political “rapprochement” between Governor Arlekar and CPI(M).
• Allegations suggest an agreement was reached during a meeting between Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the Governor at Raj Bhavan recently.
• Left-wing unions have reportedly remained silent on these developments despite earlier criticisms.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The nomination of new Deans at the University of calicut raises questions regarding political influence in academic appointments-a recurring concern in Indian higher education governance. If accurate, claims suggesting a rapprochement between traditionally opposing entities like CPI(M)-aligned groups and the Governor indicate shifting dynamics that could impact governance at both institutional and state levels.

From a broader perspective, such events highlight underlying issues with balancing autonomy in university management alongside potential interference from political entities or ideological divisions within academia itself. Neutral oversight mechanisms might be worth examining to safeguard merit-based decisions while maintaining accountability against undue influence.

This development might hold importance for similar state-run universities in India if it establishes precedents for politically negotiated educational leadership dialog.

Published July 28, 2025 | Read more: