Tue Oct 07 08:51:57 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
A Kozhikode-based organization, Council for Women’s Rights and Safety, is petitioning the Kerala Governor, who also serves as Chancellor of state universities, to intervene in the inclusion of rapper Vedan’s song “Bhumi Njan Vazhunna Idam” in the Malayalam syllabi of both the University of Calicut and the University of Kerala. The organization’s concern stems from pending rape allegations against Vedan, arguing that requiring students to study his work under these circumstances could cause emotional distress and contradict principles of gender justice. The Governor’s office has requested a response from Calicut University, and the organization is prepared to take the matter to the Kerala High Court if they find the response unsatisfactory.
**News Article:**
**Controversy Erupts Over Rapper Vedan’s Inclusion in Kerala University Syllabi Amid Rape Allegations**
**Kozhikode, India – October 7, 2025** – The inclusion of a song by Kerala-based rapper Hirandas Murali, known as Vedan, in the Malayalam syllabi of two prominent Kerala universities is facing stiff opposition due to pending rape allegations against the artist. The Council for Women’s Rights and Safety, a Kozhikode-based organization, has formally requested Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, in his capacity as Chancellor of the University of Calicut and the University of Kerala, to take action.
In a letter dated August 21, 2025, the organization’s chairperson, P.S.F. Husna, expressed concern over the inclusion of Vedan’s song, “Bhumi Njan Vazhunna Idam,” citing the serious allegations against him. The organization argues that requiring students, particularly female students, to engage with Vedan’s work in the classroom while he faces these charges is deeply troubling and potentially harmful.
“It sends a deeply troubling message, conflicts with contemporary academic values, and risks inflicting emotional distress,” Ms. Husna stated.
The Governor’s office has reportedly sought a response from Calicut University regarding the matter. The Council for Women’s Rights and Safety previously submitted a request to Calicut University to remove the song. They are now prepared to escalate the issue to the Kerala High Court if they deem the final response from the Governor’s office insufficient.
While acknowledging Vedan’s contributions to Malayalam culture and the potential for marginalized voices in art, the organization maintains that the pending legal case makes the inclusion of his work in the curriculum inappropriate at this time. The case highlights the ongoing debate about separating art from the artist, especially in the context of serious allegations of misconduct.
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