Bharat Mata controversy: Governor was deliberately blocked at Senate Hall, VC submits report criticising Registrar

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala University Vice Chancellor Dr. Mohanan Kunnummal has submitted a report criticising Registrar Dr. K.S. Anilkumar for allegedly trying to stop an event at the University’s Senate Hall where a picture of Bharat Mata was displayed. The report was prepared following a directive from Governor R.V. Arlekar, who had asked for an explanation regarding the delay and last-minute cancellation of the event.

As per the report, the Registrar is said to have acted under external pressure and deliberately attempted to block the Governor’s participation in the program. It also points out that there was no valid reason for revoking permission and that the cancellation email was sent to Raj Bhavan only after the Governor had reached the venue. The Vice Chancellor has recommended a high-level inquiry and has also asked the Registrar for a formal explanation.

The controversy unfolded during a memorial event organised by the Sree Padmanabha Seva Samiti. The organisers complained to the Vice Chancellor, alleging that the Registrar objected to the Bharat Mata image — which they clarified was not a religious symbol — and misinformed the Governor about the event being cancelled. They claim they received the cancellation email 14 minutes after the Governor had already arrived. The organisers have also approached the police and demanded that the Registrar be suspended.