Kerala University VC says no move to ban student politics, stresses need to curb violence

Kerala University Vice-Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal has stated that there are no plans to ban student politics, but rather a focus on preventing violence and maintaining academic activities on campuses. Kunnummal, who is also the additional charge of Kerala University of Health Sciences (KUHS), clarified that discussions are underway regarding a draft code of conduct for student politics, following directions from the High Court.

The issue was also previously examined by Mahatma Gandhi University (MG University) in Kottayam, which prepared a document on regulating campus activities. Kunnummal highlighted that the relationship between student organizations and political parties remains a point of difference, and student organizations like the SFI and KSU are active on campuses in Kerala.

According to Kunnummal, student politics should not be viewed solely as an obstacle to education. He emphasized that campuses should serve as spaces for discussions and debates on contemporary issues, and that violence should not occur in any form. Kunnummal stressed that the purpose was to ensure a violence-free environment and continuous academic activities.

The final decisions on the proposed code will be made through the university's statutory bodies, including the Senate, Syndicate, and Academic Council, following comprehensive deliberations.