Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala University Vice-Chancellor Dr Mohanan Kunnummal triggered fresh controversy by transferring key officials in the registrar’s office. The Left union at the university alleged that the VC’s action was an act of revenge.

The officials who received transfer orders include Assistant Registrar Anvar Ali. Manorama News reported that JS Smitha will take charge as Assistant Registrar. Section Officer S Vinod Kumar was also transferred from the registrar’s office.

The VC's action came under fire as 16 Left-backed syndicate members formally demanded that he convene a syndicate meeting to discuss Registrar KS Anil Kumar’s suspension, as directed by the Kerala High Court. On September 10, the Kerala High Court directed the university syndicate to decide on the suspension while dismissing Anil Kumar’s plea.

Kerala University has been reeling under an administrative crisis following the suspension of Registrar KS Anil Kumar.

On July 3, VC Dr Mohanan Kunnummal suspended Anil Kumar with immediate effect for allegedly disrespecting Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar. The order stated 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 already begun and while the Governor, who is also Chancellor of state universities, was on stage.

On July 6, however, the syndicate overrode the VC and revoked the registrar’s suspension. Opposing this, interim VC Dr Ciza Thomas appointed Mini D Kappen as temporary registrar. The VC also issued an order restricting Anil Kumar from entering the campus and using the official vehicle.