CPI(M) to Take Legal Action Against Kerala Governor Over VC Reappointment

GG News Bureau
Thrissur, 25th Oct. In a move that has ignited political tensions in Kerala, the ruling Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] announced on Friday its intention to initiate legal action against Governor Arif Mohammed Khan. This decision follows the Governor’s controversial reappointment of Mohanan Kunnummal as Vice-Chancellor of the Kerala University of Health Sciences (KUHS).

CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan criticized Khan’s decision, labeling it as “anti-democratic” and carried out without proper consultations with the state government. Speaking to reporters in Chelakkara, Govindan stated, “The act of the Governor, who is the Chancellor, is undemocratic and illegal, and legal actions will be initiated against his moves.” He emphasized that the Governor failed to meet the legal and democratic obligations that require consultations for appointments in state-funded universities.

Govindan further alleged that Khan is attempting to implement a saffronization agenda in the education sector, claiming that those aligned with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have been nominated to the university senate by the Governor.

Kunnummal, whose tenure was set to end on October 25, was reappointed for an additional five years or until he reaches the age of 70, whichever comes first. Additionally, the Governor appointed him as the interim Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kerala until a permanent appointment is made. Both appointments will take effect on October 26.