Registrar row throws Kerala University into administrative chaos

Kerala University has plunged into an unprecedented administrative crisis as the bitter power struggle between the Syndicate and the Vice-Chancellor has led to the appointment of two Registrars, creating chaos and confusion within the institution.

A day after the Syndicate reinstated Registrar K.S. Anil Kumar, interim Vice-Chancellor Ciza Thomas on Monday appointed Director (Planning and Development) Mini Dejo Kappen as Registrar through a separate order, as she remained firm on her stance that the Syndicate’s decision was legally invalid. Dr. Kappen, who accepted the appointment, has been operating from a different room on campus.

Joint Registrar replaced

The crisis escalated further after the Vice-Chancellor replaced P. Harikumar as the Joint Registrar (Administration). Hema Anandan, Joint Registrar (Academic), has been appointed to the position following Mr. Harikumar’s participation in the Syndicate meeting after being adjourned by Prof. Thomas. He also apparently failed to respond to an explanation sought by the Vice-Chancellor and went on leave.

Governor seeks report

The deadlock could further intensify with the intervention of Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, who also serves as the Chancellor in the university, in the issue. Raj Bhavan sought a detailed report from the Vice-Chancellor regarding the chaotic developments and the Syndicate’s decisions on Sunday. In her response, Prof. Thomas reportedly stated that the Syndicate’s decision to revoke the suspension was illegal and lacked procedural validity.

Higher Education Minister R. Bindu alleged that Vice-Chancellors, who have been appointed on temporary basis, have been overstepping their administrative boundaries without fully understanding the regulations governing their roles. Rather than fuelling controversies, the interim Vice-Chancellors must help the academic community move forward by acting with restraint and responsibility.

General Education Minister V. Sivankutty blamed the Governor for the university’s troubles, accusing him of interfering in administrative matters and misinterpreting the university Act.

Activists of the Students Federation of India and Left-aligned service organisations held protests on the university campus against the “autocratic behaviour” of Vice-Chancellor in-charge Mohanan Kunnummal, who is expected to return within a few days after a brief visit to Russia.