Kerala University V-C Mohanan Kunnummal returns amid tight security; SFI refrains from protesting on campus

Kerala University Vice-Chancellor in-charge Mohanan Kunnummal arrived at the university headquarters on Friday (July 18, 2025) after nearly 20 days.

His return, under tight police security, marks a significant development following weeks of controversy and student protests. Notably, no protests were staged by the Students’ Federation of India (SFI), despite declarations that they would block the Vice-Chancellor’s entry.

Kerala University Vice-Chancellor in-charge Mohanan Kunnummal arrives at the university headquarters on Friday (July 18, 2025).
| Photo Credit:
Nirmal Harindran

Mr. Kunnummal had stayed away from the university citing threats to his life and peace on the campus following intense protests by the SFI. His return comes a few days after a meeting with Governor and Chancellor of the university, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, and amidst administrative tensions within the establishment.

While mediapersons attempted to get a response from Mr. Kunnummal during his arrival both at the airport earlier and at the university premises, he declined to comment as he proceeded under tight security.

Pending certificates

Despite continuing its agitation against the Governor and the Vice-Chancellors appointed by him, the SFI did not organise any protests on the campus during Mr. Kunnummal’s arrival. The CPI(M)-feeder student body has stated that their decision was based on the pressing need to get the several pending certificates cleared by the Vice-Chancellor.

Last week, the university had witnessed dramatic scenes when SFI activists stormed the university headquarters, shouting slogans against both the Vice-Chancellor and the Chancellor. Hundreds participated in the protest, which also led to arrests. Those detained were recently granted bail.

While the situation conveys a semblance of normalcy, it remains to be seen what transpires within the top echelons of power at the university. The Vice-Chancellor has yet to accept the disputed reinstatement of Registrar K.S. Anil Kumar by the Syndicate, and has charged Director (Planning and Development) Mini Dejo Kappen with the additional charge of Registrar.

Mr. Kunnummal’s move to convene an Academic Council through Ms. Kappen, while ignoring repeated calls from Left-backed Syndicate members for an urgent Syndicate meeting, has further deepened the divide within the administrative circles.