State government intervenes to nullify mass layoff of 125 employees at Kerala Kalamandalam

Wadakkanchery/Cheruthuruthy: The mass layoff at Kerala Kalamandalam, a deemed-to-be university, has been nullified. The decision to dismiss 125 temporary employees was overturned following intervention by the state government. Cultural Minister Saji Cherian directed the amendment of the order and instructed the Registrar to withdraw the decision. A new order is expected on Monday.

The Vice-Chancellor had issued an order terminating the services of 125 temporary employees, including 69 teachers, effective from 1 December. The termination was attributed to financial constraints and lack of government assistance. The latest development comes in this context.

Background
The university relies on temporary workers due to unfilled permanent positions, but government funding is available only for permanent roles. The laid-off staff included individuals who had worked there for over ten years. The mass layoff could have disrupted classes and hostel activities. Notably, many temporary staff also teach traditional art forms like Thimila and Koodiyattam.

The financial crisis tarnishing the institute’s reputation comes a year after Kerala Kalamandalam was upgraded to a state cultural university. The administration is focused on ensuring salaries for permanent employees. However, the institution’s future remains uncertain as the government considers asking cultural bodies to generate their own funds. This decision has raised concerns about its potential impact on students and the preservation of traditional arts.