CPI(M) leader and former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday accused the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) government of enabling attempts to “saffronise” Mahatma Gandhi University (MGU) in Kottayam, alleging that the Governor’s office has played a role in influencing university administration.
In a social media post, Vijayan alleged that there have been sustained efforts to bring the state’s higher education institutions under ideological influence, which he attributed to the Sangh Parivar. He claimed that these developments pose a challenge to the secular and democratic framework of the education system in Kerala and called for resistance from like-minded political and social forces.
Vijayan further alleged that since the UDF came to power, the Governor—who also serves as the Chancellor of state universities—has been interfering in the functioning of Mahatma Gandhi University. He accused the state government of failing to respond effectively to what he described as encroachment into university autonomy.
Also Read: SBI Pays Rs 8,813 Crore Dividend To Government After 13% Profit Growth In FY26
He also criticised the appointment process of a temporary Vice-Chancellor at MGU, alleging that an individual linked to a BJP-affiliated teachers’ organisation was selected. According to him, the absence of a panel submission from the government weakened its ability to legally challenge the appointment, which he claimed contributed to the current situation.
The CPI(M) leader further alleged irregularities in the composition of the university Senate, claiming that a significant number of members were associated with the RSS. He said that established norms were bypassed during these appointments, which he argued indicated a coordinated attempt to influence institutional decision-making.
Vijayan contrasted the current situation with the previous LDF government’s tenure, stating that earlier administrations had resisted similar attempts through both legal and political means. He accused the present government of remaining passive while what he described as ideological interference in universities continued.
He also referred to past judicial interpretations regarding the limited role of Governors in university affairs and urged the Chief Minister to clarify the government’s position. Vijayan said the issue concerns constitutional principles and accused the UDF of failing to uphold Kerala’s secular values in higher education governance.
Also Read: NDA Government Under PM Modi Marks 12 Years Of Welfare And Economic Reforms