SFI Workers Storm Kerala University Campus, Clash With Police Over Youth Fest Grant | Video

Last Updated:February 10, 2026, 13:09 IST

SFI clashed with police at Kerala University, protesting Vice Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal's alleged denial of Rs 50 lakh grant for the University Youth Festival.

Amid a row over the University Youth Festival grant, the Student Federation of India (SFI) workers on Tuesday engaged in clashes with the police while protesting at Kerala University in Thiruvananthapuram.

The SFI is protesting against the Vice Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal’s decision to allegedly deny funds for the conduct of the University Youth Festival. The students have been seeking permission for the current union to organise this year’s fest and allocation of the grant amount of Rs 50 lakh.

The SFI workers tried breaking barricades to enter the university campus, prompting the police to resort to lathi charge and use water canons to disperse the crowd.

Kerala Minister Criticises VC’s Decision

Higher Education Minister R. Bindu strongly criticised Kerala University Vice Chancellor in-charge Mohanan Kunnummal for allegedly denying funds to students for the youth festival.

Bindu said that it was unbecoming of a Vice Chancellor to oppose the conduct of such a festival. She argued that such festivals play a major role in encouraging students’ creativity, leadership skills and organisational abilities.

News india SFI Workers Storm Kerala University Campus, Clash With Police Over Youth Fest Grant | Video

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