HC junks Kerala University registrar's plea against suspension, asks syndicate to decide

Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Wednesday declined to interfere in the suspension of Kerala University registrar Prof Dr KS Anil Kumar. Dismissing his plea, Justice Ravi directed Vice Chancellor Dr Mohanan Kunnummal to convene a syndicate meeting to decide on the registrar’s suspension. Hence, Anil Kumar will continue to remain under suspension.

“Challenge against suspension… Prayers regarding the same are rejected. Writ petition is disposed of directing the second respondent to convene a meeting of the syndicate. Suspension to be continued until the syndicate takes a call,” the bench observed.

In his petition, Anil Kumar contested his continued suspension despite the University Syndicate’s formal revocation of the order. He also sought to quash several directives issued by the Vice Chancellor that prevented him from resuming duty.

A detailed order of the Court is awaited.

Kerala University VC Dr Mohanan Kunnummal had suspended Anil Kumar with immediate effect on July 3 for allegedly disrespecting Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar. The order cited that on June 25, Anil Kumar cancelled the sanction granted to the Sree Padmanabha Seva Samithi for use of the University Senate Hall—after the programme had begun and while the Governor, who is also Chancellor of state universities, was on stage.

On July 6, the syndicate overrode the VC and cancelled the registrar’s suspension. Opposing this, interim VC Dr Ciza Thomas appointed Mini D Kappen as temporary registrar.
(With Live Law inputs)