Dictating respect? Kalady University under fire for ‘strange’ conduct circular for Governor’s visit

KOCHI: The University of Sanskrit in Kalady has sparked controversy following the issuance of a 10-point circular outlining conduct for the upcoming Shankara Jayanti celebrations. The event, scheduled for Tuesday at the university's utility hall, will be inaugurated by Governor Rajendra Arlekar.

Key Points of Contention

While the circular emphasises showing extreme respect to the Governor, specific directives issued by Vice-Chancellor Ciza Thomas have drawn significant criticism:

• Instruction 4: Prohibits "unnecessary movements, gestures, and talking," and strictly bans the use of mobile phones.
• Instruction 7: Mandates that attendees show respect through "controlled applause" only after the Governor’s speech concludes.
• Mandatory Attendance: The circular, digitally signed by Assistant Registrar (Administration) M.R. Sheena, explicitly requires all faculty and staff to be present.

Additional restrictions

The directive includes several other rigid protocols:

• Stationary Presence: Attendees are forbidden from entering or leaving the hall once the Governor arrives until the entire program concludes.
• Formal Respect: All present must stand upon the Governor’s arrival and departure.
• Silence: Absolute silence must be maintained throughout the duration of the Governor's address.

While faculty members have yet to issue a formal public response, internal tensions are rising. There are reports suggesting the circular may have been drafted by members of a pro-CPM non-teaching staff organisation, adding a political layer to the unfolding controversy.