Governor-government dispute: VD Satheesan's stance gains acceptance at Political Affairs Committee meeting

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Opposition Leader VD Satheesan's stance of putting the government on the defensive by pointing out the flaws in the higher education sector in the Governor-government controversy has gained general acceptance at the KPCC Political Affairs Committee meeting.

Everyone agreed with senior leader PJ Kurien's explanation that the D.Litt controversy involving the President was not a big issue. "The Governor has not made a public statement on the D.Litt controversy. The governor has not given a letter to Kerala University VC regarding the issue. The questions raised by Ramesh Chennithala remain unanswered," Kurien pointed out.

The meeting also agreed that the issue of political intervention in universities, including in the appointment of vice-chancellors and teachers, should be raised as a major issue. It was Ramesh Chennithala who released the letter given by the Higher Education Minister to the governor regarding the re-appointment of the Kannur VC. Congress would stand firm on its demand seeking the resignation of the minister. Earlier, it was believed that the differences between Satheesan and Chennithala on the issue would lead to a dispute. However, no such dispute took place.

Reorganization within one week

KPCC president K Sudhakaran informed the meeting that the reorganization of DCC and block committee will be completed within a week. The KPCC General Secretaries in charge of the districts were directed to forward the suggestions from the districts to the KPCC.

Governor's response not in line with his position

K Sudhakaran said in a press conference that the governor's response to the opposition leader was not in line with his position. "The opposition leader and I are of the same opinion on the D.Litt controversy. Wouldn't it be a confession if the governor said he was forced to remain silent over the VC appointment? It is not enough to admit a mistake. He should also come up with a solution," Sudhakaran said.