
Fri Jan 16 16:01:27 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Kerala High Court Halts Inauguration of Unauthorized Construction at Government Law College
The Story:
The Kerala High Court intervened on January 16, 2026, directing stakeholders to prevent the inauguration, unveiling, dedication, or ceremonial functions of any unauthorized construction or statue at the Government Law College, Thiruvananthapuram. This order comes in response to a writ petition filed by student Akshay Krishnan S., who alleged encroachment on government land for the unauthorized erection of a permanent structure. The court has tasked the District Collector, college principal, and the Station House Officer (SHO) of the Museum Police Station with ensuring compliance.
The student’s petition highlighted that despite a stop memo issued by the college principal, a police complaint, and the suspension of four students, authorities failed to remove the encroachment. Furthermore, the petitioner claimed that a ‘political inauguration’ of the structure was scheduled for January 17, and the authorities’ inaction represented a failure to protect public property.
Key Points:
- The Kerala High Court issued a directive to halt the inauguration of an unauthorized construction at Government Law College, Thiruvananthapuram.
- The order follows a writ petition by student Akshay Krishnan S., alleging encroachment on government land.
- The District Collector, college principal, and SHO of Museum Police Station are responsible for ensuring compliance.
- The college principal had already issued a stop memo, filed a police complaint, and suspended students, but the encroachment remained.
- A ‘political inauguration’ was reportedly planned for January 17, 2026.
Key Takeaways:
- The Kerala High Court is taking a firm stance against unauthorized constructions on government property.
- Student activism is playing a crucial role in bringing attention to issues of land encroachment and governance.
- The incident underscores potential lapses in the oversight and protection of public property by relevant authorities.
- The involvement of a ‘political inauguration’ suggests potential political motivations or backing for the unauthorized construction.
- The High Court’s intervention highlights the importance of the judiciary in upholding the rule of law and protecting public assets.