Kerala Assembly Clash Over University Laws: Power Struggle Explodes

The Kerala Assembly experienced heated debates over two University Laws (Amendment) Bills, leading to the UDF boycotting the session. Tensions rose due to a dispute between State Higher Education Minister R Bindu and opposition members. The amendments aimed to clarify the power dynamics between VCs and the Pro-Chancellor.

Amidst rising tensions, the Kerala Assembly was embroiled in a contentious debate over two University Laws (Amendment) Bills. The dispute climaxed with the opposition, United Democratic Front (UDF), walking out after Higher Education Minister R Bindu exchanged heated remarks with opposition leader V D Satheesan and Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil.

Controversy erupted as Satheesan accused Bindu of making inappropriate comments, unfit for official records, against Mamkootathil. Bindu, in turn, accused Mamkootathil of personal attacks, leading to a boycott by the opposition. Despite the uproar, the assembly passed the controversial bills, which the opposition claimed were designed to strip universities of their autonomy.

Bindu defended the bills, arguing they aimed to bolster universities in line with modern needs and clarify the roles of the Pro-Chancellor in the absence of a Vice Chancellor. The recent amendments align with upcoming University Grants Commission regulations, according to Bindu, but the opposition remains unconvinced.

(With inputs from agencies.)