VC running the university unilaterally, Kannur University Syndicate members alleged

Members of the Kannur University Syndicate have accused the Vice-Chancellor (VC) of running the university unilaterally by sidelining the syndicate and taking key administrative decisions without consulting the statutory body. They further alleged irregularities in the appointment of academic staff, challenged the appointment of a senior official and demanded greater transparency in the university’s administration.

Addressing the media on Wednesday (July 8, 2026), Syndicate member N. Sukanya said the Vice Chancellor (VC) had consistently taken “undemocratic and unilateral” decisions. She said that although the new syndicate had not yet been established, the tenure of the existing syndicate had not formally ended. Despite this, the VC did not convene Syndicate meetings or inform its members about major administrative decisions, she claimed.

Ms. Sukanya alleged that the list of members of the various Boards of Studies was deliberately delayed and that the approval of the Chancellor was obtained for the list allegedly prepared by persons other than the Syndicate in violation of the University’s regulations.

It also alleged serious irregularities in the appointment of A. Praveen as Director of the Malviya Mission Teacher Training Centre. According to Mrs. Sukanya, Dr. Praveen to the university as the director of physical education on a one-year deputation and his subsequent appointment to head the teacher training center has raised questions about the circumstances of his deputation and the selection process.

The Syndicate member further claimed that Dr. Praveen has faced numerous complaints, including allegations of sexual harassment, during his previous stint at Pondicherry University, and that police cases related to these complaints are pending. She also alleged that he had joined Kannur University while the disciplinary proceedings initiated against him in 2025 were still pending.

Meanwhile, Vice Chancellor KK Saju said he would not respond in detail to the allegations leveled by the Syndicate, saying all his decisions were taken strictly in accordance with rules and procedures.

The VC said the allegations are baseless and no decisions have been taken outside the legal framework. “If anyone has allegations, they can make them. I did not act illegally,” he added.

In response to criticism of the establishment of the study council, he specified that its members are appointed by the chancellor. The Syndicate’s role is limited to approving the Chancellor’s nomination at its next meeting.

“Nominations have not been announced yet as they have to be submitted to the Syndicate first. That is the prescribed procedure,” he said.

About the delay in convening the syndicate, the VC said the meeting scheduled for June 26 had to be postponed after the government declared a holiday. Since the new members of the Syndicate are expected to be appointed soon, it would be inappropriate to call the meeting just before they assume office, he added.

University rules require the syndicate to meet once every two months, though meetings are often held more frequently, he said.

Published – 8 Jul 2026 23:57 IST