Mon May 12 18:31:50 UTC 2025: ## State Officials Accused of Illegally Inspecting University

**Thiruvananthapuram, May 13, 2025** – The APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University Staff Organisation (TUSO) has accused the Kerala Higher Education Department of overstepping its authority by conducting an unsanctioned inspection at the university. The surprise inspection, led by an additional secretary on Friday, allegedly aimed to investigate a PhD admission denial complaint filed by a Students Federation of India (SFI) leader.

TUSO claims the inspection, which included questioning senior university officials including the Registrar, violated university autonomy and bypassed standard procedures. The organization asserts that this action occurred before the Governor’s assent to a University Laws (Amendment) Bill, which would legally permit such inspections.

The complaint triggering the inspection was reportedly submitted by former Syndicate member Ashiq Ibrahimkutty, whose PhD application was rejected due to an alleged failure to meet eligibility deadlines. The Vice-Chancellor (in-charge) has initiated a separate inquiry into allegations that Ibrahimkutty threatened the Dean of Research.

TUSO has urged the Vice-Chancellor to inform the Chancellor about this alleged unlawful intrusion into university affairs. The incident highlights growing concerns over government interference in higher education institutions.

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