Why are the Left and Congress Outraged by the Governor's Circular on 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day'?
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Synopsis
In Kerala, tensions escalate as the ruling Left and the Congress-led opposition condemn Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar's directive for universities to observe 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day.' The move faces backlash for perceived political motivations and raises questions about constitutional authority and the Governor's role in state administration. What will be the state's response?
Key Takeaways
- Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar issues a controversial directive.
- The ruling Left and Congress-led opposition strongly oppose the move.
- State Education Minister V. Sivankutty labels it as RSS-backed.
- Concerns about the constitutionality of the Governor's actions are at the forefront.
- Ongoing tensions between the Governor's office and state government over higher education management.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 11 (NationPress) A significant controversy has erupted in Kerala as both the ruling Left and the Congress-led opposition have criticized Kerala Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar for issuing a circular that instructs the Vice Chancellors of state universities to observe August 14 as 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day'.
This marks the first instance where such a directive has originated from the Governor’s office directed at universities in Kerala.
State Education Minister V. Sivankutty vehemently opposed the initiative, labeling it as an RSS-inspired program.
"We will not accept this in any form. The Governor is attempting to establish a parallel administration without the state cabinet’s endorsement, which is entirely unacceptable," he stated.
In 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced August 14 as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day in conjunction with India’s 75th Independence Day celebrations.
Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan also criticized Arlekar, urging Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to address this matter publicly.
"It is unconstitutional for the Governor to act independently of the state government. This circular clearly indicates that, despite holding a constitutional position, he functions as a spokesperson for the RSS and its divisive politics," he remarked.
"The Chief Minister and the state government must speak out and clarify their position. The Governor should be formally notified of the government’s protests against these unconstitutional actions," Satheesan added.
This dispute arises amid ongoing friction between the Governor’s office and the state government concerning the management of higher education in Kerala. Notably, last month, Arlekar urged Vice Chancellors to participate in a national education conference organized by a Sangh Parivar-affiliated group, Gyan Sabha.
Four Vice Chancellors, including Mohan Kunnummal from Kerala University, P. Ravindran from Calicut University, K.K. Saju from Kannur University, and A. Bijukumar from Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, attended the event.
Point of View
It is crucial to note that the ongoing controversy surrounding the Governor's directive signifies a larger struggle between state authority and constitutional roles. Both sides present valid concerns, yet the need for an open dialogue remains paramount to maintain democratic integrity in governance.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day'?
It is a day declared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2021 to remember the tragedies and horrors faced during the partition of India in 1947.
Why is the Governor's circular controversial?
The circular is considered controversial as it is seen as an overreach of authority, bypassing the state government and being influenced by political affiliations.
What are the implications of this directive?
This directive raises questions about the constitutional balance of power between the Governor and the state government, potentially affecting higher education administration.
