The office of Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, who also serves as the Chancellor for all State universities, has issued a pivotal order. This directive unequivocally states that P. Raveendran, the Vice-Chancellor (V-C) of the University of Calicut, is fully entitled to all authorities, powers, duties, and responsibilities that are typically conferred upon Vice-Chancellors under the university’s governing acts and statutes.
This significant clarification addresses concerns previously raised by the Kerala State Audit department. The department had sought explanations regarding various aspects of V-C Raveendran’s tenure, including the appointment of specific staff members in his office and official residence, as well as his use of university quarters in his former capacity as a Professor in the Department of Chemistry. Mr. Raveendran, who was originally a Professor, was granted full charge as V-C in July 2024 by the then-Governor, Arif Mohammed Khan. The Audit department’s investigation was prompted by a complaint lodged by P.P. Sumod, a Left Democratic Front MLA and Syndicate member of the university.
In his formal complaint, Mr. Sumod contended that since Mr. Raveendran was holding additional responsibilities as V-C, he was not entitled to the official Vice-Chancellor’s bungalow or the authority to appoint office staff. Furthermore, Mr. Sumod alleged that V-C Raveendran was not fulfilling his academic responsibilities within the Department of Chemistry.
However, the Chancellor’s office, through an order dated October 8, unequivocally clarified V-C Raveendran’s status. The order states he should not be considered merely an “officer in charge” or “in any manner inferior to regularly appointed Vice-Chancellors.” During his appointment, he is explicitly not obligated to perform the duties of his original teaching post and holds the discretion to decide on this matter. Crucially, he is eligible for furnished accommodation typically provided to a V-C, irrespective of any staff accommodation he might otherwise have access to. The order further details that Mr. Raveendran is entitled to a range of other benefits, including an official vehicle with a driver, comprehensive medical allowances, and leave travel allowance.
This directive applies retroactively, taking effect from the initial date of his appointment notification. Nevertheless, the order also specifies that V-C Raveendran cannot claim continuity or permanency in the position. Additionally, the standard procedure outlined in the university act for the removal of a regularly appointed V-C will not apply in his case.