Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 23 (NationPress) Kerala's Higher Education Minister R. Bindu clarified on Tuesday that the state government aims to avoid further conflict with Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar, who also serves as Chancellor of the state's universities. This statement reflects a noticeable shift in attitude following a mutual agreement on the appointments of Vice-Chancellors.

This change comes in light of efforts to restore normal operations in universities statewide, which have been hindered for months due to ongoing tensions between the Lok Bhavan and the Kerala government.

The new approach was evident at the Kerala Technological University (KTU), where the Board of Governors convened in a collaborative environment to approve the university's budget, successfully ending a 14-month stalemate.

Representatives from the CPI(M)-led LDF participated in the meeting, facilitating the approval of the Rs 373.52-crore budget that was initially scheduled for approval in March.

This development is seen as a vital step towards achieving administrative stability in Kerala's higher education sector.

During a previous Board meeting, despite Governor Arlekar's attendance, a lack of quorum due to missing MLAs and senior officials led to adjournment, exacerbating the standoff.

However, on Tuesday, Vice-Chancellor Ciza Thomas formally welcomed the Governor, accompanied by CPI-M MLA I.B. Satheesh, indicating a renewed spirit of cooperation from the CPI-M.

Addressing rumors concerning recent administrative actions, Minister Bindu emphasized that the removal of K.S. Anilkumar from the position of Kerala Registrar was not the result of any agreement with the Governor. She clarified that the decision was taken at Anilkumar's own request and should not be interpreted politically.

The Minister further asserted that the Kerala government intends to adhere to established norms and constitutional guidelines regarding university administration.

Meanwhile, with the appointments of Vice-Chancellors at KTU and the Digital University nearing finalization, the Raj Bhavan has begun procedures for selecting a new Vice-Chancellor at the University of Calicut.

This action suggests a broader initiative to address long-standing leadership issues within major universities in the state.

The recent developments point to a thaw in the relationship between the Kerala government and the Governor after enduring months of sharp exchanges and institutional deadlock.

It remains uncertain whether this newfound consensus will foster continued collaboration in the higher education sector, but for now, the KTU budget's approval signifies a crucial step toward restoring normalcy in Kerala's universities.