Kerala University to undertake comprehensive survey of land holdings

The Kerala University Syndicate on Monday decided to conduct a comprehensive survey and demarcation of all land owned by the university. The Survey Directorate is expected to be entrusted with the task.

The move comes against the backdrop of the controversy surrounding the alleged assignment and encroachment of the university land for the CPI(M)’s former State headquarters, A.K.G. Centre (A.K.G. Memorial Research Centre). This marks the first time since the issue resurfaced that the university has resolved to measure and demarcate its entire land holdings.

According to official sources, the issue of alleged assignment dates back several decades. In 1977, the A.K. Antony-led government allotted land free of cost to the AKG Memorial Committee for establishing a research centre. However, allegations that university land had been encroached upon first emerged in 1984.

The matter was revisited in 1992 after J.V. Vilanilam assumed office as Vice Chancellor. He had ordered a complete survey and demarcation of university land, but the initiative reportedly did not progress after he faced a prolonged agitation over allegations related to his academic qualifications.

The Syndicate meeting, chaired by Vice Chancellor in-charge Mohanan Kunnummal, also decided to frame regulations based on University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines for granting Emeritus Professorships to retired university professors.

The meeting reviewed the progress of the ₹100-crore PM-USHA project and decided to convene the PM-USHA Governing Body on Tuesday to ensure the timely completion of the scheme.