Kerala University restricts participation of politically affiliated persons, makes prior approval mandatory

Kerala University has introduced restrictions on the participation of individuals with political affiliations in programmes organised by its departments.

In a circular, the university directed Heads of Departments and programme organisers, including those conducting seminars, to seek approval at least 15 days in advance by submitting details of the participants.

The circular, issued by the Registrar in-charge Resmi R., flags that certain departments that conduct seminars on the university premises using funds sanctioned by the university often invite “celebrities and other individuals who may have political affiliations or involvement in activities of a controversial or anti-national nature”.

The presence of such persons may inadvertently drag the university into unwarranted controversies, potentially affecting communal harmony, the document read.

Along with details of the proposed participants, the organisers will henceforth be required to submit a brief report on the focal subject of the event for approval from the Vice-Chancellor.