Kerala VC moves court over 'party leader' chaired rank list for guest lecturer appointments

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala University’s Vice-Chancellor, Dr Mohanan Kunnummal, has filed a petition in the High Court challenging the rank list prepared by an interview board chaired by DYFI central committee member and district secretary, JS Shiju Khan, for the selection of 12 guest assistant professors. Dr. Kunnummal has alleged that the rank list was created in violation of UGC regulations and has submitted an affidavit in court to support his claims.

According to UGC guidelines, the interview board for academic appointments should be chaired by either the VC or a professor appointed by the VC. However, despite the VC's recommendation to appoint a senior professor as chair, the syndicate appointed Shijukhan as the chairman of the interview board, citing his past experience as a syndicate member. The selection was reportedly approved in a syndicate vote, where 14 CPM-backed members supported the rank list, while two BJP members opposed it.

BJP member PS Gopakumar has also petitioned the High Court, questioning the legality of the selection process. Dr Kunnummal's affidavit was submitted in this case, as the Chancellor, who is also the Governor of Kerala, is involved as a respondent. Although the VC initially intended to send the rank list to the Governor for approval, the current affidavit aims to address the procedural irregularities before any final endorsement.

The UGC guidelines stipulate that non-teaching syndicate members should not participate in academic interview boards, and Shiju Khan’s lack of teaching experience has raised concerns. Despite objections, the syndicate proceeded with the selection under the CPM majority’s approval, with UDF representative Y. Ahmed Fazal questioning the VC’s role in allowing the interview to proceed.

The appointments, set for a one-year term with a monthly salary of Rs. 75,000, require all qualifications typical for permanent appointments. While 12 vacancies are currently available, the number is expected to increase to 50 over the next four years.