Thiruvananthapuram: The tug-of-war between the Raj Bhavan and the state government looks to escalate further with Kerala University Registrar Dr. KS Anil Kumar suspended from service pending disciplinary proceedings for allegedly creating discord during a function attended by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar.
Vice Chancellor Dr. Mohan Kunnummal took action against the Registrar after confirming misconduct during the Governor’s event and a violation of service rules. The move has shocked the Kerala university syndicate members who has pledged full support to the registrar.
“I have decided to challenge the action taken in the High court as the VC does not have any right to remove me. It is the syndicate who has elected me and hence it is totally against the rules and regulations”, said Dr KS Anil Kumar.
In the suspension order, the Vice Chancellor noted that the Registrar denied permission for the programme while the Governor was already on stage and stated that the official’s actions were prejudicial to the interests of the University.
Responding to the suspension order, Anil Kumar declared that he will approach the court. Meanwhile, syndicate members of left wing parties condemned the VC’s action against the Registrar.
The All Kerala Private College Teachers’ Association (AKPCTA) protested against the suspension, calling it unjust. In a joint statement, State President A Nishant and General Secretary Dr Bijukumar K alleged that the Vice Chancellor is acting with a Sangh Parivar agenda and demanded his removal.