Verdict a double whammy for Pinarayi govt

The Supreme Court quashed the reappointment of Kannur University vice chancellor Gopinath Ravindran, citing unwarranted interference by the state government. This vindicates governor Arif Mohammad Khan’s stand on the matter and exposes the LDF government’s attempts to politicize higher education. It is the second time the state government has faced a setback from the SC over the appointment of VCs. The SC’s judgment cites the governor’s press release, revealing that the reappointment was initiated by the chief minister and higher education minister. The SC’s decision raises questions about the University Law (Amendment) bills that aim to replace the governor as Chancellor.