Thiruvananthapuram: Amidst various controversies and internal conflicts at the University of Kerala, University Registrar Dr. K.S. Anilkumar has applied for leave. He had applied for a few days’ leave from July 9 following the advice of doctors that his health condition was affecting his mental and physical health. The application stated that the doctor had cited problems including high and low blood pressure as the reason for the leave.
Dr. Anil Kumar applied for leave, leading to further changes in the university constitution. Vice Chancellor Dr. Mohanan Kunnummal left for a foreign trip and the interim charge was handed over to Dr. Sisa Thomas. Following this, the university syndicate convened a meeting to discuss internal issues. Protests and differences of opinion are also prevailing in the university administration on the issue.
The differences between the Registrar and the Vice Chancellor have been in the news several times in the past. There are allegations that there is mutual hatred over the responsibility of various regulatory and diplomatic functions. The problems have flared up again with disputes over changes in officials, file transfers, etc.
Meanwhile, the incident that created controversy during the seminar is also noteworthy again. On June 25, the Governor attended the seminar organized by the Sree Padmanabha Seva Samithi as the chief guest. The presence of a picture of Bharat Mata with a saffron flag on the stage had caused controversy. Allegations were also raised in some academic circles that this was not in line with the ethical stance of the university. Official sources also indicate that it was against this backdrop that the registrar sought leave.
