KOZHIKODE: The High Court has turned down an order of the Governor removing M Abdul Rahman from the post of pro-vice-chancellor of Kerala Technological University (KTU). A single bench of the High Court ruled Rahman could continue in the post till the expiry of his term of office. The Governor had removed Rahman after the resignation of varsity’s Vice Chancellor Kuncheria P Isaac.
According to UGC rules, a pro-vice-chancellor has to demit office after the expiry of the vice chancellor’s term. Rahman contented since Isaac had resigned from the post ahead of the expiry of his term of office, the UGC rule was not applicable.
Rahman, who was appointed during the tenure of the previous UDF Government, had been at the receiving end of Left-affiliated organisations in the varsity. These organisations had petitioned the Governor seeking his ouster. During a hearing on the matter, the Governor rejected Rahman’s arguments.
The HC verdict came in the wake of a plea by Rahman challenging Governor’s decision. With the verdict in his favour, Rahman will be able to continue as pro-vice-chancellor till August 31.