Kerala University Tensions Rise as Syndicate Faces Intimidation Claims

Swift Summary

• A conflict over governance has arisen at Kerala University.
• Registrar in-charge mini Dejo Kappen issued a notice accusing Syndicate members G. Muralidharan and J.S. Shijukhan of misconduct for summoning staff, including female employees, without following due process.
• Complaints filed with vice-Chancellor in-charge Mohanan Kunnummal claim the Syndicate members intimidated staff and gave unlawful directives, leading to the forwarding of these complaints to the police.
• The notice emphasized that Syndicate members can only exercise legal powers during official meetings or when authorized by the Vice-Chancellor; their actions outside this framework are deemed unauthorized (“ultra vires”).
• Administrative staff were directed not to comply with any instructions or summons issued outside legal authority by Syndicate members and report such incidents directly to the Vice-chancellor.
• Left-backed Syndicate members questioned Mini Dejo Kappen’s legitimacy as Registrar in-charge, claiming that Registrar K.S. anil Kumar is still legally empowered to perform his duties.

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