Kerala University Vice-Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal has clarified that there is no proposal to ban student politics on campuses, stressing that universities must prevent violence and ensure that academic activities continue without disruption. He said universities are examining proposed regulations on campus politics in accordance with directions issued by the Kerala High Court.According to PTI, Kunnummal made the remarks on Saturday while responding to questions about a draft code of conduct for student politics that recently came up for consideration before the university’s Syndicate.The proposed regulations aim to address concerns surrounding political activities on campuses while protecting students’ freedom of expression. Kunnummal said the matter requires detailed deliberations and that any decision would be taken through the university’s statutory bodies.
Kerala University to examine proposed code of conduct for student politics
Kunnummal said the issue of regulating student politics had earlier been taken up by Mahatma Gandhi University in Kottayam, which prepared a document outlining measures to regulate campus activities.The Kerala High Court subsequently directed universities to examine the document and formulate their own regulations, he said. Universities are now studying the proposals in line with the court’s directions and discussions held at the government level.According to the Vice-Chancellor, several proposals could emerge during the deliberations. The university will examine the available options before reaching a decision on the proposed code of conduct.The matter will be discussed by the Senate, Syndicate, and Academic Council of Kerala University. Kunnummal said the decision would not rest with the Vice-Chancellor alone, underlining the role of the university’s statutory bodies in the process.
Student politics in Kerala: Definition and political affiliations under discussion
The proposed code of conduct has raised questions about how student politics should be defined and how student organisations affiliated with political parties should function within educational institutions.Student organisations, including the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) and the Kerala Students Union (KSU), are active across campuses in the state. Any proposed regulations would need to consider the nature of political activities, students’ participation, and the need to maintain discipline in educational institutions.Kunnummal said student politics should not be treated solely as an obstacle to education. He maintained that political engagement can benefit students and provide opportunities to discuss contemporary social and political issues, according to PTI.His remarks indicate that the focus of the proposed regulations is on addressing the challenges associated with campus politics rather than imposing a blanket ban on political activities.
Kerala University VC stresses freedom of expression and prevention of campus violence
Kunnummal said the primary objective should be to prevent violence in educational institutions and ensure that academic activities are not affected by political disputes.He stressed that students must have the freedom to express their opinions, participate in debates, and engage with political and social issues without resorting to physical confrontation.The Vice-Chancellor also emphasised that freedom of expression must be exercised with respect for the rights of others. Differences of opinion should be resolved through discussion and debate rather than violence, he said.The proposed code of conduct is being considered amid wider discussions on the regulation of student politics in Kerala. Higher Education Minister Roji M John had also clarified last month that there was no move to ban campus politics.Universities are expected to continue examining the proposals and frame their own rules in accordance with the Kerala High Court’s directions. The final position will emerge after deliberations within the respective university bodies.(With inputs from PTI)