Roji M John
Speaking to reporters, the minister said Keralam was the only state where autonomous colleges required govt permission, in addition to university approval, to introduce new courses. He said the earlier system, which required fresh govt approval even after a university or regulatory body had taken a decision, was where irregularities could potentially occur. On the ongoing controversy at Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Kalady, the minister said the matter was before Kerala High Court and govt would proceed in accordance with the court’s directions. He said govt’s position was that students should be able to write their examinations and continue their studies. Responding to criticism over the appointment of Anison K Joy as an examination observer, John said the university had officially clarified that Joy was not a student at the relevant time.
He argued that the requirement defeated the very purpose of granting autonomous status to institutions recognised for their academic excellence. Rejecting allegations of corruption, John questioned the basis of the charges, pointing out that introducing courses without financial liability to govt could not be considered an avenue for corruption. He added that the appointment of syndicate members as examination observers was an established university practice.