Kerala University crisis deepens as agitations and administrative tussle rage on

The University of Kerala headquarters turned into a battleground yet again on Thursday (July 10, 2025) as protests by various Left-backed student and youth organisations intensified both inside and outside the premises. The deepening administrative standoff too has turned the campus into a political flashpoint.

The agitation, targeting Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Vice-Chancellor in-charge Mohanan Kunnummal, began when activists of the All India Students Federation (AISF) breached police barricades to enter the campus. Soon after, members of the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) marched towards the university and attempted to cross police lines, prompting the law enforcers to use water cannons. Later, All India Youth Federation (AIYF) activists also arrived on the scene, leading to further police action.

The police using water cannons to disperse All India Youth Federation (AIYF) protesters outside the University of Kerala campus in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday.
| Photo Credit:
Nirmal Harindran

Addressing the protest outside the university, DYFI State secretary V.K. Sanoj launched a scathing attack against the Governor and the Vice-Chancellor, accusing them of functioning as “agents” of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and undermining constitutional values in the State’s higher education system. “The Governor is implementing the RSS’ communal agenda under the guise of constitutional authority,” he charged.

The DYFI leader also accused the Congress of aligning with communal forces by tacitly supporting the Governor’s actions. He declared that DYFI, in coordination with the Students Federation of India (SFI), would intensity protests across Kerala.

Registrar reports for duty

Meanwhile, the university’s internal conflict took another turn when Registrar K.S. Anil Kumar reported for duty despite an order from the Vice-Chancellor barring his entry on the campus. Security personnel allowed Mr. Kumar to enter, and he told mediapersons, “Let the law take its course,” before proceeding to his office.

At the same time, the Vice-Chancellor issued a formal order assigning the responsibilities of the Registrar to Director (Planning and Development) Mini Dejo Kappen. Officials were instructed not to forward any files to Mr. Kumar.

Mr. Kunnummal did not arrive on the campus, reportedly anticipating heightened protests. The SFI, which had stormed the premises two days ago, had warned it would block his entry if he attempted to return.

A heavy police contingent, numbering over 500 officers, including reinforcements from Kollam district, has been deployed around and inside the campus. Entry is being strictly monitored, and ID checks have been made mandatory for students, staff and visitors.