Kerala Governor Faces Legal Challenges Over University Decisions

Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan welcomed recent orders from the state High Court and Supreme Court concerning universities. The Supreme Court issued a notice to Khan over delays in Bill approvals, while the High Court stayed his decision to form search committees for appointing Vice Chancellors. Khan emphasized the constitutional right to challenge executive actions in court.

Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, who recently faced setbacks from both the state High Court and Supreme Court over university-related matters, expressed his appreciation for these judicial orders on Saturday.

Just yesterday, the Supreme Court issued a notice to Khan, along with the West Bengal Governor, regarding the delays in granting assent to various legislative Bills.

The state High Court has issued multiple orders staying Khan's efforts to form search committees for appointing Vice Chancellors at several state universities.

Speaking to the media, Khan emphasized the constitutional right to challenge executive actions in court, stating that legal remedies should be sought rather than indulging in street violence. He said, "If the court stays an executive action, it is an exercise of constitutional rights we must respect."

Khan reiterated the need for regular Vice Chancellors at universities and noted that legal challenges are acceptable as long as the process remains within the law. He pointed out that some parties are obstructing his efforts to ensure regular appointments.

The High Court recently stayed the formation of search committees for Kerala Agricultural University and Sree Narayana Guru Open University, following earlier similar stays for Kerala University, Mahatma Gandhi University, Malayalam University, and the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies.

In June, Khan constituted these search committees, citing his duty as chancellor under the University Act and adhering to a High Court judgment from December 2022. The Governor's directive required recommendations within three months, amidst a wider conflict between Raj Bhavan and Kerala's Left government over university administration.

(With inputs from agencies.)