Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan has halted the decision to reinstate the suspended college dean and hostel assistant warden in connection with the death of Pookode Veterinary College student J.S. Sidharthan.

Sidharthan’s family and the whistleblower forum, Save University Campaign, had approached the Governor, who is also the Chancellor of state universities, opposing the managing council’s move to reinstate the two individuals.

Earlier, the Governor had appointed retired High Court judge, Justice A. Hariprasad, to investigate Sidharthan’s death. His report found lapses on the part of the dean and assistant warden, recommending departmental action against them. However, the university’s managing council, following a majority vote, decided to reinstate both without taking further action.

There were concerns that the university’s decision could send the wrong message to the academic community. It was argued that such matters should not be resolved by majority vote, and the decision should be revoked. Siddharth's parents and the Save University Campaign Committee had submitted a petition demanding action against those found responsible.

Vice-Chancellor Dr K.S. Anil had refused to implement the majority decision to reinstate the dean and assistant warden, and had written to the Raj Bhavan Secretary seeking further instructions. Following this, the Governor issued an order blocking the council’s decision.