Kerala's VC Appointment Clash: Governance vs. Authority

The conflict between Kerala's government and Governor Arlekar over university vice chancellor appointments has escalated. The Governor appointed interim VCs, bypassing state consultation, contrary to the Supreme Court's guidance, causing legal and political turmoil. The situation underscores a larger clash over governance protocols and political influence.

In a heated conflict over university governance, the Kerala government and Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar face off over vice chancellor appointments. The Governor's unilateral decision to appoint interim heads at two universities without consulting the state government has intensified tensions.

On Friday, the Kerala Governor reappointed Dr Ciza Thomas and Dr K Sivaprasad as interim vice chancellors for State Digital University and APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University. This move, according to a Raj Bhavan communique, aligns with a Supreme Court order, although it has faced backlash from local authorities.

The conflict has reached a legal impasse, with Kerala's Chief Minister and other officials questioning the Governor's adherence to the apex court's suggestions and university acts. The opposition suggests a political agenda at play, challenging the balance of power and legal interpretations in the state's educational sector.

(With inputs from agencies.)