Kerala University is currently facing an unprecedented administrative crisis, with two registrars simultaneously functioning in office. The crisis erupted when K.S. Anilkumar—the registrar suspended by Vice Chancellor (VC) Dr. Mohanan Kunnummal and reinstated by the CPI(M)-dominated syndicate—and Dr. Mini Dijo Kappan, the planning director who was given full charge as registrar by the VC, both began performing the registrar’s duties and examining files.
Dr. Anilkumar reviewed and forwarded three files, which the VC returned without signing, questioning how a suspended registrar could process and forward files. Meanwhile, the VC signed 25 e-files submitted by Dr. Kappan. The VC also instructed joint registrars not to send any files to Dr. Anilkumar. In cases of urgency, he directed that files be sent directly to him.
Meanwhile, BJP-aligned syndicate members are preparing to approach the High Court, citing the ongoing administrative turmoil. They are expected to demand central security, alleging that the police have failed to maintain order on campus.
Like the previous day, Anilkumar once again defied the VC’s instruction not to enter the university premises. Although Kunnummal had directed security personnel to block his entry, they did not comply. While Anilkumar accessed the physical registrar’s office, he was denied access to the e-file system by the VC.
Amruth G. Kumar, professor and dean (academic) at the Central University of Kerala, observed that the impact of this ongoing “frozen state” is ultimately being borne by the students.
“A lot of student-related files—whether related to examinations, admissions, migrations, or various other requirements—are now caught in this ping-pong,” he said.
Kumar noted that the stalemate exists because both parties are technically operating under the same University Act, Statute, and Ordinance. “Each side is interpreting and arguing based on legal loopholes. And when both are clashing over these loopholes, a final settlement can only happen through the courts,” he said.
He added that instead of allowing the situation to become a prolonged legal battle, some form of judicial activism is necessary to break the deadlock.
This is happening at a time when a larger issue is plaguing Kerala’s higher education sector: many universities currently do not have vice chancellors.
“Because of this, what we are witnessing is structural paralysis in some universities. Things have come to a standstill in a very visible way,” Kumar said, adding that a growing public consciousness is being shaped by the recurring problems in the education system.
“Already, many colleges have numerous vacant seats. This is true across almost all aided and government institutions. In this context, such administrative issues arise, and they reflect a deep and dangerous impact on our public education system. There’s no doubt about that,” he said.
Kumar reiterated that unless the court intervenes swiftly and delivers a verdict, the confusion and conflict will only deepen. “Otherwise, there will be no clarity, and more problems are sure to follow,” he said.