Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan reiterated his uncompromising and stringent stand against nepotism, favouritism and corruption. Speaking to the media persons today, Governor said that he is not a rubber stamp. He would not permit the state government to interfere in the university affairs against the rules. He would not compromise on nepotism and favouritism. Governor underlined his stand that he would not support any attempt to dilute the autonomy of the universities.
Governor’s press briefing should be viewed in the wake of his tough stand regarding the appointment of Priya Varghese as the Associate Professor in Kannur University. Priya is the wife of K.K. Ragesh former MP (Rajya Saha) and incumbent Private Secretary of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Governor had frozen the appointment since Priya lacked the required eligibility. Couple of weeks before, Kerala High Court extended the stay on Priya’s appointment for another month.
Another significant development to be noted is University Laws (Amendment) Bill 2022, meant to curtail Governor’s powers as Chancellor of the universities in the state. CM-led Pinarayi Vijayan regime tries its best to get rid of Governor’s authority in the university matters. The latest bill is a development in that direction. But, it needs Governor’s nod (and signature) before it becomes a law. Governor reiterated his stand when he was asked if he would endorse the University Laws (Amendment) Bill 2022. His statement is a hint of what is in his mind.
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