Arlekar backs predecessor's stance on Governor's role in higher education in state

NEW DELHI: Newly appointed Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has made it clear that he has no two opinions on the fact that responsibility for higher education in the state lies with the Governor. Arlekar's stance is similar to that of his predecessor Arif Mohammed Khan, who had maintained that the state government should not interfere in matters, including the appointment of Vice-Chancellors.

The new Governor clarified his stance after Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan rejected the UGC draft regulation regarding the appointment of VCs. Arlekar said that the courts had clarified this even before the UGC's stance was clarified.

"The Constitution has entrusted the Governors with the duty of managing higher education in their respective states. The Governors are performing their duties. The education sector should be independent. If anyone has any misunderstanding in this regard, it can be resolved," Arlekar said.

"The government and the people of Kerala are excellent. I will work together with the government for the good of the people of Kerala," he said. Arlekar also said that former Governor Arif Mohammed Khan performed his duty brilliantly.

Arlekar, who went to Delhi for the first time after becoming Kerala Governor, met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Today, he will meet with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Later, he will return to Thiruvananthapuram.

Arif Mohammed Khan was constantly at odds with the government and the SFI, the student wing of the CPM, over issues including VC appointments. Even as he expressed his desire to have a good relationship with the new Governor, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan conveyed the message that the Governor should be more flexible on certain issues. However, the Governor has made it clear that he is opposed to government control in the education sector.