KOCHI: The state government on Friday submitted before the Kerala High Court peaceful protests by students or teachers or other employees of educational institutions on campuses cannot be barred. "Wherever the law is violated during such protests, strict and prompt action will be taken against the persons responsible without bias or discrimination," the state submitted.
The affidavit was filed in response to a High Court directive to state steps taken by the government to maintain law and order in educational institutions so classes can be conducted and no damage is caused to the property of institutions. The government proposed to formulate a comprehensive policy - road map for dealing with the situations arising out of agitations and other issues on the campuses of higher educational institutions in consultation with all the stakeholders in the higher education field. It will soon convene a meeting of all concerned, including the higher education department officers, managements, institution heads, teachers and students, in this regard.
According to the government, any unlawful or illegal activity on the part of any person, be it students or outsiders or those managing the institutions, will be strictly dealt with in accordance with the law. The government had ensured such action was taken without prejudice, bias or discrimination.
The policy of the government is functioning of campuses should be free, open and democratic. Involvement of students will be ensured whenever issues affecting the student community is at stake. However, the government will ensure the activities did not cross the barriers of law and will intervene to address any internal issues/disturbances.
It will also ensure discipline is maintained to foster academic excellence and fraternity among students on the campus. In fact, the heads of the institutions could seek the assistance of the law enforcement agencies whenever and wherever the situation warrants, the affidavit stated Student activities in government and aided high schools and higher secondary schools are conducted in accordance with the law, the affidavit stated.