CUEO calls for Governor’s intervention to address KTU impasse; demands V-C appointment from government panel

The Confederation of University Employees Organisations (CUEO), Kerala, has written to Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, who also serves as the Chancellor of State-run universities, seeking steps to address the deteriorating state of affairs in the APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU).

In a letter signed by CUEO general secretary Harilal, the organisation blamed Vice-Chancellor in-charge K. Sivaprasad for pushing the university into an administrative and financial crisis. The absence of key officials, including the Registrar, Controller of Examinations and Pro Vice-Chancellor, has crippled routine operations and decision-making processes.

Besides, the Vice-Chancellor has not convened crucial meetings of statutory bodies such as the Syndicate. This, the organisation alleged, has delayed the approval of the Budget for the 2025–26 financial year, resulting in the suspension of pension distribution to retired staff, among other disruptions.

CUEO also accused Dr. Sivaprasad of adopting unilateral decisions, including reinstating an employee who was involved in the alleged misappropriation of Provident Fund.

Under such circumstances, immediate steps must be taken to remove the Vice-Chancellor and appoint someone from the panel submitted by the State government in accordance with the Kerala High Court verdict, the organisation urged the Governor.