Kerala University seeks explanation from MSM College; VC says principal responsible

Thiruvananthapuram: The vice-chancellor (in-charge) of Kerala University, Dr Mohanan Kunnummel, has sought an explanation from MSM College, Kayamkulam, regarding the admission of now-dismissed SFI leader Nikhil Thomas, who allegedly submitted a fake degree certificate. Dr Kunnummel stated that he expected the college to provide the explanation by Wednesday evening. He addressed the media in Thiruvananthapuram to discuss the matter.

Dr Kunnummel emphasised that it is the college principal's responsibility to verify the authenticity of the certificate before admitting students to the university.

Earlier, college principal Muhammad Thaha claimed Nikhil was admitted based on the university's recommendation. It is assumed that he was referring to the “eligibility certificate” given to Nikhil by Kerala University. Eligibility certificates are given to students who have completed courses from another institution, stating that it is equivalent to the course provided by Kerala University. They are sought while applying for admission to courses at Kerala University. However, they do not confirm that the certificate submitted by the student (from another institute) is legit.

In response to another incident, the VC claimed that KSU state convenor Ansil Jaleel’s degree certificate was cross checked following the newspaper report. The university has filed a complaint against Jaleel for allegedly forging a degree certificate in the name of Kerala University. 

However, Ansil has denied the allegations, asserting that he pursued a BA in Hindi Literature at Kerala University, not a B.Com degree. He expressed his lack of knowledge regarding any fake certificate and maintained that he voluntarily presented himself to the authorities as he had nothing to hide.