Kerala Minister Slams V-Cs for Attending RSS Events on Teachers' Day

Kerala's Higher Education Minister, Roji M John, has ignited a fresh debate by openly criticizing Vice-Chancellors (V-Cs) of state universities for attending events organized by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The minister's strong remarks came in an online message posted on Teachers' Day, September 5, 2026, where he urged heads of institutions to uphold the dignity of their office.

John's statement, though not naming individuals directly, was clearly aimed at several V-Cs who have recently faced scrutiny for their association with RSS-organized gatherings. He emphasized that it is

unbecoming of heads of higher educational institutions to reduce themselves to the platforms of organisations that propagate divisive agenda in society.

The Minister highlighted the core principles of academic autonomy and constitutional values, stating, “Such tendencies, which surrender the privilege of academic autonomy before narrow political interests, question the essence of education and teaching.

The institutions of higher educations are meant to be the seats of free thought and constitutional values.” This powerful message underscores the importance of universities remaining independent intellectual hubs, free from political influence. Several prominent V-Cs have been in the spotlight.

Kerala University of Health Sciences Vice-Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal, Mahatma Gandhi University Vice-Chancellor in-charge Mavoothu D., and Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University Vice-Chancellor in-charge C.R. Prasad had all attended a program where RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat was present in Thiruvananthapuram on June 13, 2026. Mr. Kunnummal also participated in another RSS event in the same city on August 15, 2026.

Adding to the controversy, Kerala Agricultural University Vice-Chancellor in-charge T.

Sajitha Rani recently inaugurated a 'Shobhayatra' organized by Balagokulam in Thrissur on September 4, 2026. These instances collectively form the backdrop for Minister John's firm rebuke, signaling a governmental concern over the ideological affiliations of academic leaders.

The Minister's Teachers' Day message served as a timely reminder to academic leaders about their crucial role in shaping generations of students with a scientific outlook and a “nation first” spirit, urging them to steer clear of narrow political interests that could undermine the integrity of higher education. #KeralaPolitics #HigherEducation #AcademicAutonomy #TeachersDay2026