File seizure war at Kerala University; VC and Registrar clash head-to-head, throwing administrative system into disarray

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The administrative system at the University of Kerala has been thrown into disarray due to the tussle between the VC and the suspended registrar. Employees have been left in a state of disarray due to the high-ups' scrimmage.

Suspended Registrar Dr. KS Anilkumar visited the university yesterday despite Vice Chancellor Dr. Mohanan Kunnummal's ban on him entering his office. Anilkumar's login ID in the system for checking files online and making decisions was cancelled as per the VC's instructions. The VC approved the 25 files sent by Planning Director Dr. Mini Kappan, who was given the responsibility of the Registrar by the VC. The three files sent by Anilkumar were returned to the Joint Registrar.

In retaliation, the VC was removed from the administrator's login in the online system. This was done by intimidating the computer centre director and the private company providing the software service, under the leadership of the syndicate members. Anilkumar was given a login ID again and the login ID of registrar Mini Kappan, who was given the registrar's responsibility by the VC, was cancelled. All the files were brought before Anilkumar. It was also alleged that the syndicate members threatened Mini Kappan and the officials.

Anilkumar sent the files to the VC, raising a challenge. Not only did the VC not consider a single file, but he also informed the higher officials that all the decisions taken by Dr. Anilkumar would be illegal. The VC strictly instructed the joint registrars not to send him the files being examined by Anilkumar. The instruction was to send the necessary files directly. The unusual situation of having two registrars continues as Anilkumar and Mini Kappan are performing the duties of the registrar. There are indications that Mini Kappan has requested that she be removed. VC Dr. Mohanan Kunnummal said that no such request has been received.