Thiruvananthapuram: The Vice Chancellor of the University of Kerala, who had earlier suspended Registrar Dr K S Anilkumar, has now directed that the latter’s salary be withheld, reinforcing a firm stance in the ongoing controversy. This move follows a meeting between the Chief Minister and the Governor, and the SFI's decision to call off its strike. The action underscores an unwillingness to compromise on Anilkumar’s suspension.

The Left-backed syndicate members claim that the suspension had been revoked. Despite this, Anilkumar reportedly continued attending office, defying the Vice Chancellor’s instructions. In response, the VC has now ordered that Anilkumar be paid only the statutory subsistence allowance instead of his full salary.

Anilkumar was suspended on July 2 by the Vice Chancellor using special powers. However, on July 6, syndicate members aligned with the Left met without the VC and passed a resolution to revoke the suspension. The university subsequently issued an order reinstating him as Registrar, but the Vice Chancellor has not recognised this reinstatement. With the salary now withheld, the administrative standoff is expected to intensify further.