A political controversy has arisen in Kerala following Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan’s demand for an apology from three Vice Chancellors who participated in a recent RSS centenary event. This gathering featured Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and Satheesan described their involvement as a significant error that was inappropriate for their roles. He expressed that such participation contravened the educational traditions of Kerala and diminished the respect associated with the positions they hold.

Chief Minister’s Strong Remarks on the Issue

Sathesian’s criticism was articulated through a firmly worded statement made on X, where he remarked on the seriousness of the Vice Chancellors’ attendance at the event. He stated, “We view with utmost seriousness the participation of three Vice-Chancellors in an RSS centenary event addressed by Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat. This is a grave lapse.” According to him, the actions of these academics were seen as undermining the esteemed position of Vice Chancellor.

The Chief Minister further argued that the populace of Kerala holds the office of Vice Chancellor in high regard, and their attendance at an event led by what he termed an “RSS leader who preaches extreme communalism” has eroded public trust in these academic positions. He emphasised, “By attending a programme led by an RSS leader, they have undermined that respect,” highlighting his concerns over the implications of such participation.

In addition to expressing his disapproval of the Vice Chancellors’ actions, Satheesan also addressed the broader implications of legitimising communal politics, condemning any such efforts irrespective of the origin. “Any act that promotes communalism, whoever commits it, is unacceptable and will not be condoned,” he added, indicating the significant social responsibilities that come with public office.

Calls for Accountability from Vice Chancellors

Satheesan intensified his stance by insisting that the three Vice Chancellors issue an apology to the public of Kerala for their involvement in the RSS function. He stated, “All three Vice-Chancellors who attended the RSS programme must apologise to the people of Keralam.” This statement ignited further discourse about the propriety of academic leaders participating in events associated with ideological and political organisations.

The centenary event, which took place recently, was marked by considerable media focus, particularly due to the attendance of the Vice Chancellors representing Kerala University, Mahatma Gandhi University, and Malayalam University. The gathering served as a rallying point for discussions on the intersection of education and politics in the region.

In response to the Chief Minister’s remarks, BJP Kerala president Rajeev Chandrasekhar launched a pointed counterargument. He accused Satheesan of hypocrisy with respect to secularism, questioning his critique of the Vice Chancellors. Chandrasekhar suggested that the Chief Minister, who relies on support from specific communal organisations, should refrain from discussing secularism. He declared, “It is unacceptable that a CM who takes an oath to uphold law and Constitution is now intimidating Vice-Chancellors for attending a public programme.” His comments added to the growing intensity of the ongoing political discussion.

Chandrasekhar further alleged that both the Congress and the Communist Party of India (CPM) engage in vote-bank politics, using the BJP and RSS as political targets to consolidate minority votes. He asserted that, moving forward, people in Kerala would unflinchingly express their nationalism and rally behind leaders prioritising the nation, indicating potential shifts in political alignment within the state.

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