Minister criticises KU V-C over youth festival row

Higher Education Minister R. Bindu has strongly criticised Kerala University Vice Chancellor in-charge Mohanan Kunnummal for allegedly disallowing the conduct of the University Youth Festival.

Speaking to media persons here on Monday, Dr. Bindu said it was unbecoming of a Vice Chancellor to oppose the conduct of such a festival, as arts festivals play a major role in encouraging students’ creativity, leadership skills and organisational abilities. Denying students the opportunity to participate would set a wrong precedent, she cautioned. She added that students should not be denied a chance to compete due to unnecessary disputes.

Referring to the complaint submitted against Syndicate members and Students Federation of India (SFI) activists for allegedly vandalising the Vice Chancellor’s chamber, the Minister accused Prof. Kunnummal of adopting an antagonistic and rigid approach towards the academic community and students. While a healthy coordination between the Vice Chancellor and the Syndicate was essential for the smooth functioning of the university, such cooperation was unfortunately lacking, she said.

The SFI also conducted a day-and-night agitation over the purported denial of allocated funds for the purpose.