Interim VC’s Actions an Attack on University's Democracy, Says CPI Leader Binoy Viswam

Thiruvananthapuram: CPI State Secretary Binoy Viswam has criticised the interim Vice-Chancellor of Kerala University, alleging that his recent actions amount to an attack on university democracy. He said Kerala would not accept any move that undermines the democratic traditions of higher education institutions in the State.

In a statement, he said those who attempt to impose “Nagpur’s politics” on Kerala’s higher education sector fail to understand its long-standing democratic culture. He emphasised that extracurricular activities are an essential part of the creative and holistic development of young students, alongside academics.

According to him, students had raised legitimate demands, including the immediate conduct of the Kerala University Union Youth Festival and the provision of travel allowances for participants in the Inter-University Sports Festival. However, he said, the Vice-Chancellor annulled the students’ union before the completion of its term as a retaliatory measure.

Binoy Viswam also expressed concern that previously scheduled events such as the drama festival, film festival and student conclave could now be cancelled as a result of the decision. He added that Kerala would resist what he described as attempts by Sangh Parivar affiliates to replicate in the State the strategies allegedly adopted in institutions such as Delhi University, JNU and Jamia Millia Islamia.