Vice-Chancellor of Mahatma Gandhi University in Keralam faces heat from UDF-backed bodies after Left unions

After Left-backed employee unions, the interim Vice-Chancellor of Mahatma Gandhi University, D. Mavoothu, is now facing opposition from United Democratic Front (UDF)-backed administrative and academic bodies, signalling a widening discontent over his decisions within the university.

The latest flashpoint is the appointment of directors to paper valuation camps, with UDF-backed Senate members questioning the selections on grounds of seniority, academic excellence and alleged violation of university regulations. The issue has added to the resentment among UDF-appointed Syndicate members over the Vice-Chancellor’s administrative decisions, including the large-scale transfer of university employees.

The differences between the two sides had surfaced earlier after Mr. Mavoothu nominated Senate members allegedly associated with Sangh Parivar organisations. UDF-backed Senate members have now stepped up their criticism, alleging that the Vice-Chancellor has been favouring individuals associated with such organisations while assigning academic responsibilities.