05-05-2025
SFI protest over Kannur University Dean appointments ends in clashes
A march organised by the Students Federation of India (SFI) to protest the controversial appointment of Faculty Deans at Kannur University erupted into clashes on Monday (May 5), leaving several injured and resulting in multiple arrests.
The protest was staged in response to the alleged violation of the Kannur University Act, 1996, which stipulates that Deans must be appointed on a rotation basis from among heads of departments or professors within the University.
Instead, ten individuals from external institutions were appointed, triggering widespread discontent among both student and teacher communities.
As the University Syndicate convened, SFI workers—led by district president T.P. Akhila and Taliparamba area secretary Atul—stormed the venue and broke down the office door. The police arrested the agitators and forcefully removed them, during which Atul sustained facial injuries. Around seven activists who staged a sit-in inside were detained, while others continued protesting at both gates, leading to a prolonged scuffle with the police. Additional personnel were deployed to disperse the demonstrators.
The University Syndicate later passed a resolution expressing strong opposition to the appointments. Critics argued that the selections bypassed eligible in-house candidates, undermining the University's Faculty. Syndicate member N. Sukanya alleged political interference behind the move.
'This decision tramples on the Kannur University Act. The appointment suggests BJP-Sangh Parivar influence. The SAI director appointed is due for retirement in a month. What has the University gained from this?' she asked.
Ms. Sukanya called for the newly issued list to be frozen and demanded that the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor adopt a democratic appointment process.
