Now Reading: Kerala minister tells VCs to avoid political stands, polarising remarks
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Kerala minister tells VCs to avoid political stands, polarising remarks
Kerala minister tells VCs to avoid political stands, polarising remarks
Kerala Higher Education Minister Roji M John said on Wednesday that Vice-Chancellors of state universities must not take public stands that cause ideological polarisation or attend political functions. He said such actions…
Kerala Higher Education Minister Roji M John said on Wednesday that Vice-Chancellors of state universities must not take public stands that cause ideological polarisation or attend political functions. He said such actions are inappropriate for the higher education sector.
The statement followed Kerala University VC Mohanan Kunnummal’s controversial remarks at an RSS event, where he questioned those who do not say ‘Vande Mataram’. The minister also said VCs should not “whitewash” the Centre’s image over the NEET paper leak. Separately, John condemned an SFI protest at Kalady University against VC Ciza Thomas, calling it “uncivilised.” Police have registered cases and made arrests.
John noted that Kunnummal continues as VC due to the previous LDF government. He said the government is not against democratic agitations but expects proper conduct. The SFI protest on August 13 over campus facilities reportedly included an alleged manhandling of the VC.
Indian Opinion Analysis
Shot: In Kerala, Higher Education Minister Roji M John has directed Vice-Chancellors to stay out of political events and polarising statements. The immediate trigger was Kerala University VC Mohanan Kunnummal’s remarks at an RSS event and later a comment some saw as whitewashing the Centre over the NEET paper leak. The minister said VCs must not “whitewash” the Centre’s image, as it makes their own “ugly.” Separately, John condemned an SFI protest at Kalady University, calling it “uncivilised” and noting a woman VC was allegedly manhandled and a coffin made for her. Police have registered cases and made arrests.
Coverage: 2 sources, 1 government-critical, 1 neutral
Sources (2): deccanchronicle.com (neutral report), english.mathrubhumi.com (government critical)
This story was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above.
Updated: this story now draws on 2 sources.
