CUEO urges Governor's intervention in Kerala University issue

The Hindu

11-07-2025

The Confederation of University Employees Organisations, Kerala, (CUEO), representing employees across all State universities, has urged Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar to recall Kerala University Vice-Chancellor in-charge Mohanan Kunnummal, blaming the latter's alleged illegal actions for the prevailing crisis at the university.
CUEO, in a formal representation, accused the Vice-Chancellor of violating statutory provisions to 'unilaterally and illegally' suspend the incumbent Registrar.
'Subsequently, the Syndicate, in its capacity as the legitimate authority as written in the Kerala University Act, revoked the suspension of the Registrar, who has since resumed his official duties. However, the individual illegally appointed by the Vice Chancellor (as Registrar) continues to remain in the university, creating a situation where two persons are functioning as Registrar. This unprecedented scenario has led to severe confusion, disarray and operational chaos among employees across the university.'
The organisation cautioned that the university's functioning has come to a virtual standstill, with the prevailing environment of uncertainty severely hampering administrative activities. 'What makes this situation especially concerning is that it comes at a critical juncture in the academic calendar, with admission processes underway for various programmes. The crisis threatens to jeopardise admissions, and tarnish the university's reputation,' it stated.
Separately, the Federation of University Teachers Associations issued a statement, condemning the 'unprofessional and politically motivated actions' of temporary Vice-Chancellors in the State's universities. While the public in Kerala have always held the position of Vice-Chancellor in high regard, certain persons who hold the position on a temporary basis have been allegedly undermining the office's prestige by engaging in politically-motivated actions.