Appointment of principals to state-run colleges in Kerala kicks up a row

Thiruvananthapuram: The appointment of principals in state-run colleges in Kerala has triggered a fresh controversy as it is alleged that seven college teachers were appointed as principals without adhering to UGC eligibility criteria.

 Earlier, a group of individuals taken up the matter to the administrative tribunal, claiming that the appointments of 12 faculties as principals during 2017-18 were based solely on seniority, violating  UGC guidelines. Consequently, the tribunal invalidated these appointments. Although they sought relief from the Kerala High Court, their plea was unsuccessful.

Later, Dr. Babu S, an academician, raised concerns about the lack of follow-up action from the state government and approached the tribunal. As a result, the recruitment process for Babu and 12 others resumed. Following this, Babu and 10 others were appointed as principals. However, it's alleged that seven of them were appointed without fulfilling UGC eligibility criteria.

The accusation is that faculties who supervised projects for undergraduate and postgraduate students were considered university research guides, enabling their appointment as principals. This situation could potentially escalate into a legal battle if those who were listed but not appointed would raise objections. 

The whistleblower forum Save University Campaign Committee has appealed to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to revoke the appointments of these seven faculties.