Kerala High Court in Bharat Mata portrait row ruled ‘challenge against suspension fails’, directing the Syndicate to decide on Registrar suspension, highlighting university governance and legal tussle.
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KERALA: The Kerala High Court, on Wednesday, refused to reinstate Dr. KS Anil Kumar, who was suspended from his post as Registrar of Kerala University. The controversy arose from Dr. Kumar’s decision to cancel a seminar attended by Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar over the display of a Bharat Mata portrait with a saffron flag on the stage.
The Court’s Decision
Justice TR Ravi dismissed Dr. Kumar’s plea against his suspension, observing:
“Challenge against suspension fails. Prayers regarding the same are rejected. Writ petition is disposed of (by) directing the Vice-Chancellor to convene a meeting of the Syndicate to consider whether suspension should be continued and syndicate may decide (take a call on the same).”
The Court clarified that the authority to decide on the continuation of suspension rests with the University Syndicate, and not with the Court itself.
ALSO READ: High Court To Kerala University Registrar: “How Is Bharat Mata a Religious Symbol?”
The Background of the Case
The case is rooted in the political and ideological tussle between the Kerala State government and the Governor over the use of Bharat Mata portraits with saffron flags at official functions. State ministers opposed such displays, citing their religious symbolism.
Dr. Kumar became embroiled in the controversy when he issued a notice cancelling the seminar after it had already begun, with the Governor present on stage. The cancellation was perceived as disrespectful to the Governor, who also serves as the Chancellor of the University. Following this, Dr. Kumar was suspended on July 2.
Syndicate vs Vice-Chancellor:
Interestingly, on July 6, the University Syndicate resolved to revoke Dr. Kumar’s suspension. However, the Vice-Chancellor (VC) refused to approve the resolution and instead issued orders on July 8 and subsequent dates, continuing Dr. Kumar’s suspension.
The VC maintained that the Syndicate’s decision was only a report and subject to his approval, which was not granted. A communication from the VC’s office stated:
“Dr. KS Anil Kumar continues to be under suspension, as no lawful order of revocation or modification has been issued by the competent authority.”
Dr. Kumar was also barred from entering the University campus and handling official files.
Court Observations
Challenging the VC’s actions, Dr. Kumar alleged abuse of power and overstepping of authority. On July 31, the Court sought responses from Kerala University and its VC. Justice Ravi also remarked that the dispute resembled a “cat and mouse game” between the Registrar and the VC, frequently making headlines.
Despite these observations, the Court ultimately declined to intervene in the suspension matter, instead directing the Syndicate to make the final decision.
Appearance:
For Dr Kumar: Senior counsel Elvin Peter PJ
For the Kerala University: Standing counsel, Thomas Abraham.
Case Title:
Prof Dr KS Anilkumar v The University of Kerala & ors
WP(C) NO. 24724 OF 2025
Read Judgment:
