Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Higher Education Minister Roji M John has asked vice-chancellors (VCs) of universities in the state to refrain from participating in political events and avoid making public statements that could lead to ideological polarisation.

In a statement, John said that university vice-chancellors should uphold the dignity of their positions and maintain the neutrality expected from higher education institutions. His remarks came amid controversy surrounding Kerala University Vice-Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal's participation in an RSS event, where he made remarks related to Vande Mataram.

The minister said that taking ideological or political positions was not appropriate for those holding senior positions in the higher education sector.

Minister Urges VCs to Maintain Dignity of Office

John said vice-chancellors occupy important positions in the state's higher education system and should therefore avoid actions or public statements that could create ideological divisions.

The minister also referred to Kunnummal's continuation as vice-chancellor and said that he was continuing in the position due to the previous LDF government.

The remarks come against the backdrop of renewed debate over the participation of university heads in events organised by organisations with clear ideological positions. The issue has previously triggered political reactions in Kerala as well.

Controversy Over Kerala University VC's Remarks

The minister's statement followed recent remarks by Kerala University VC Mohanan Kunnummal at an RSS event. Kunnummal reportedly said that those who do not say Vande Mataram do not know who their mother is.

The remarks have drawn attention because of the expectations surrounding the political and ideological neutrality of university authorities.

John said that such positions could contribute to ideological polarisation and should be avoided by vice-chancellors.

Minister Comments on Kalady University Protest

The Higher Education Minister also addressed the recent protest at Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit in Kalady, where students affiliated with the Students' Federation of India (SFI) had protested over alleged lack of facilities at the university.

According to reports, the protest on August 13 involved clashes between SFI activists and police. University Vice-Chancellor Ciza Thomas subsequently alleged that she was manhandled by some protesters. Police have registered cases in connection with the incident. 

John said the government was not opposed to democratic protests but maintained that certain standards of conduct and etiquette should be followed during such agitations.

He also criticised what he described as a crude form of protest against Thomas, who is a woman, and said that further action would be taken in accordance with the police cases.

Government Emphasises Institutional Conduct

The minister's comments highlight the government's position that universities should remain spaces for academic activity and democratic discussion while maintaining institutional dignity and avoiding political or ideological polarisation.

The developments involving Kerala University and Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit have also brought renewed attention to the role of university authorities, student organisations and political activity on campuses.

The government has indicated that action in connection with the Kalady University protest will follow the applicable legal process, while the minister has urged vice-chancellors to exercise restraint in political and ideological matters.