Kerala University Syndicate replaces Mini Kappan; R Rashmi takes charge as Registrar

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: R Rashmi, who is the Joint Registrar of Campus Administration, has been appointed as the Registrar of Kerala University in place of Planning Director Mini Dejo Kappan. The decision was taken at the syndicate meeting held yesterday. R Rashmi has been appointed in place of Dr. K.S. Anilkumar, who was suspended in the Bharatamba picture controversy. Rashmi took charge yesterday itself. It is evaluated that this will solve the administrative crisis in the university.

Syndicate member Muraleedharan Pillai questioned the assignment of Mini Kappan in the meeting. The Left members pointed out that the Vice-Chancellor can appoint a temporary registrar for only ten days, and the syndicate's approval is required after that. However, the VC explained that Mini Kappan was given the assignment in an unusual situation where the registrar was suspended. The Left members demanded that Mini be removed. The VC replied that she could be removed after the syndicate meeting is over. The Left members demanded that P Harikumar, Joint Registrar of Administration, be given the assignment, but the VC opposed this. With this, it was decided to give the charge to Rashmi. Mini Kappan had earlier applied to be relieved of the registrar's post as she had to go on a foreign visit. The VC accepted this and issued an appointment order to Rashmi yesterday itself. She took charge in the afternoon.

The Syndicate effectively approved Dr Anil Kumar's suspension with Rashmi being given the charge of Registrar. The syndicate gave permission to award 63 research degrees, approve projects worth Rs 100 crore under the PM Usha scheme and continue various fellowships. Dr Anil Kumar's suspension was not discussed in the meeting.