Pinarayi Vijayan alleges ‘saffronisation’ attempts in MGU, criticises UDF govt. for alleged silence

Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan has lashed out at alleged efforts by the Sangh Parivar to ‘saffronise’ and exert influence over Mahatma Gandhi University.

In a Facebook post made against the background of the purported nomination of Sangh Parivar and BJP-affiliated members to the university senate, Mr. Vijayan alleged efforts are being made to control the university through the Governor’s office.

He also criticised the United Democratic Front (UDF) government’s response and alleged that the administration has remained silent on such developments. The purported silence amounts to a betrayal of Kerala’s secular values and reflects its subordination to a Sangh Parivar agenda, Mr. Vijayan added.

During the last ten years, the State has witnessed how attempts to implement the agenda in the higher education sector through the Governor’s office were resisted. The Left Democratic Front (LDF) had opposed such moves both politically and legally without compromise, the CPI(M) veteran maintained.

Mr. Vijayan also took exception to reported statements made by Higher Education Minister Roji M. John, who stated that the government does not seek confrontation with the Governor. The issue, the Opposition leader asserted, is not about a dispute between individuals, but rather about safeguarding constitutional principles and university regulations.