KOCHI: Governor Arif Mohammad Khan has declared a public battle gainst Kannur university and its VC Gopinath Raveendran. The HC order which prevents appointment of Priya Varghese, wife of CM's private secretary K K Ragesh strengthened Governor's stand.

It was the move to appoint Priya Varghese as an associate professor in Kannur University that led to a clash between the state government and Governor. The Governor's allegations against Kannur university VC has created unusal situation in the state. He stayed Priya Varghese's posting when it was alleged that it was an attempt to appoint relatives by avoiding qualified candidates. The issues between Gover nor and VC worsened but goverment did not directly intervene in it.

Meanwhile, Governor is also planning to take action against Kerala university VC Dr V P Mahadevan Pillai and other senate members for passing resolution against him. His decision to select a commission to investigate the appointments made in the last three years in the universities of the state also gave a hint that he is all set for an open battle with government.