Should Kerala HC Intervene in University Dispute?
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Synopsis
In a significant legal ruling, the Kerala High Court has chosen not to intervene in the conflict between the Vice-Chancellor and the Registrar of Kerala University. The situation escalated when the Registrar was suspended, only to have the Syndicate later revoke that suspension. What does this mean for university governance?
Key Takeaways
- The Kerala High Court refused to intervene in the suspension of the Registrar.
- A new Registrar was appointed amidst the controversy.
- The Syndicate revoked the suspension, complicating the situation.
- The Chancellor is now tasked with resolving the conflict between two Registrars.
- This incident underscores the importance of governance in educational institutions.
Thiruvananthapuram, July 7 (NationPress) The Kerala High Court declined to intervene on Monday regarding the decision made by the Vice-Chancellor of Kerala University to suspend the university's Registrar.
Vice-Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal suspended Registrar Dr K.S. Anil Kumar for allegedly issuing a notice that canceled a private event attended by Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar at the Senate Hall, where a portrait of Bharat Mata holding a saffron flag was exhibited.
Following the suspension, Kunnummal embarked on a foreign trip, delegating responsibilities to Ciza Thomas, who is currently the Vice-Chancellor of the Kerala University of Digital Sciences.
On Friday, Anil Kumar sought an interim stay from the High Court, which was denied, and the hearing was rescheduled for Monday.
In the meantime, Thomas appointed a new Registrar. However, chaos ensued during a special meeting of the Kerala University Syndicate on Sunday when the Left-leaning university body “revoked” Anil Kumar's suspension, prompting Thomas to declare the decision invalid.
On Monday, Anil Kumar withdrew his initial petition from the High Court following his reinstatement by the Syndicate.
When the case was reviewed by a bench led by Justice D.K. Singh, the Registrar's counsel indicated that a withdrawal petition had been filed due to his reinstatement.
The bench noted that the validity of the Syndicate's decision to reinstate the Registrar should be assessed by the appropriate authority.
Consequently, the High Court dismissed the writ petition as withdrawn.
The next steps lie with the Chancellor, the Governor, as there are currently two Registrars in position.
Thomas has already submitted her findings to the Chancellor, arguing that the actions taken during the Syndicate meeting were against established rules.
It remains to be seen what decision will be made by Arlekar.
Point of View
This incident highlights the complexities of university governance and the delicate balance of power within educational institutions. The decision by the Kerala High Court not to intervene reflects a commitment to upholding procedural integrity, allowing the university’s internal mechanisms to resolve its disputes. Such situations underscore the importance of clear governance structures in maintaining educational standards.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason behind the Vice-Chancellor's suspension of the Registrar?
The Vice-Chancellor suspended the Registrar for allegedly canceling a private program attended by the Governor, which featured a controversial portrait.
What action did the Kerala High Court take regarding the suspension?
The Kerala High Court declined to intervene in the matter and dismissed the Registrar's petition for an interim stay following his reinstatement by the Syndicate.
Who is currently managing the responsibilities of the Vice-Chancellor?
Ciza Thomas is currently managing the responsibilities of the Vice-Chancellor while Mohanan Kunnummal is on a foreign trip.
What was the outcome of the special meeting of the Kerala University Syndicate?
The Syndicate revoked the suspension of Anil Kumar, which led to a dispute over the validity of the decision.
What will happen next in this situation?
The Chancellor, Governor Arlekar, will need to make a decision regarding the conflicting positions of the two Registrars.
