Thu Feb 26 02:27:45 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit Embroiled in Recruitment Controversy

The Story:
The Save University Campaign Committee (SUCC) has escalated a dispute at Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit in Kalady by petitioning Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar to intervene against the Vice-Chancellor (V-C) K.K. Geethakumary. The SUCC alleges that the V-C has disregarded the Chancellor’s directive to halt the recruitment of Assistant Professors. The committee argues that the V-C is violating established procedures and lawful directives.

The V-C, however, maintains that she acted on the mandate of the Syndicate meeting held on February 17, 2026, and has submitted relevant documents to the Chancellor. The Syndicate’s Left-backed members reportedly questioned the Governor’s authority to suspend the recruitment process, asserting it rests with the Syndicate. The university is currently facing financial constraints and has been flagged for a disproportionate faculty-to-student ratio by government auditors.

Key Points:

  • The SUCC has filed a complaint against V-C K.K. Geethakumary for allegedly ignoring the Chancellor’s order to stop faculty recruitment.
  • The Governor of State universities (Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar) is the Chancellor.
  • The SUCC claims the university has a disproportionate number of faculty compared to students and is experiencing financial difficulties.
  • The V-C states that the Syndicate authorized the recruitment process on February 17, 2026, and that related documents have been submitted to the Chancellor.
  • Left-backed members of the Syndicate challenge the Governor’s power to halt recruitment, claiming it falls under the Syndicate’s jurisdiction.

Critical Analysis:
The events leading up to this news report highlight a power struggle between the Governor/Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor, and the Syndicate, particularly its Left-backed members. The conflict is compounded by existing financial issues and concerns over faculty-to-student ratios. The SUCC’s involvement indicates external pressure and scrutiny on the university’s administration.

Key Takeaways:

  • There is a clear conflict of authority between the Chancellor and the Syndicate regarding faculty recruitment at Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit.
  • Financial constraints and audit findings are exacerbating the existing tensions within the university administration.
  • External bodies like the SUCC are actively monitoring and challenging the university’s actions.
  • The political affiliations of the Syndicate members (Left-backed) are influencing their stance on the recruitment process.
  • The dispute raises questions about the autonomy of state universities and the extent of the Chancellor’s oversight.

Impact Analysis:
This controversy could have several long-term implications:

  • Increased Scrutiny of University Finances and Operations: The allegations of financial mismanagement and disproportionate faculty-to-student ratio may lead to increased government oversight and audits of Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit.
  • Potential Legal Challenges: The conflicting claims of authority between the Chancellor and the Syndicate could result in legal challenges, further delaying the recruitment process and potentially impacting the university’s operations.
  • Reputational Damage: The public dispute and allegations of non-compliance could damage the university’s reputation, affecting student enrollment and faculty morale.
  • Political Ramifications: The involvement of Left-backed Syndicate members suggests a potential political dimension to the controversy, which could have broader implications for the governance of state universities in Kerala.
  • Changes in Governance Structure: The conflict might trigger a review of the governance structure of state universities, potentially leading to reforms aimed at clarifying the roles and responsibilities of the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, and Syndicate.

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