Kerala University to conduct a comprehensive survey of land holdings

The Kerala University Syndicate on Monday decided to conduct a comprehensive survey and delineation of all the lands owned by the university. The Directorate of Exploration is expected to be tasked with this task.

The move comes in the backdrop of the controversy surrounding the alleged allotment and encroachment of university land for the erstwhile state headquarters of the CPI(M), AKG Center (AKG Memorial Research Centre). It is the first time since the issue resurfaced that the university has decided to survey and delineate its entire land holdings.

According to official sources, the issue of alleged allocation dates back several decades. In 1977, the AK Antony-led government allotted land free of cost to the AKG Memorial Committee for setting up a research centre. In 1984, however, accusations of trespassing on university grounds first appeared.

The matter was taken up again in 1992 after JV Vilanilam took over as Vice-Chancellor. He ordered a complete survey and demarcation of university land, but the initiative reportedly did not progress after he faced a long agitation over allegations related to his academic qualifications.

The Syndicate meeting, chaired by Acting Vice-Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal, also decided to frame regulations based on University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines for awarding Emeritus Professorships to retired university professors.

The meeting reviewed the progress of the ₹100 crore PM-USHA project and decided to convene the governing body of PM-USHA on Tuesday to ensure timely completion of the scheme.

Published – 13 Jul 2026 22:45 IST