Minister for Higher Education Roji M. John has termed as ‘unacceptable’ the participation of three university Vice-Chancellors (VCs) in an RSS programme attended by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat in Thiruvananthapuram.

The issue has triggered a political storm in the State.

“The attendance of the VCs at events hosted by political organisations sends a wrong message to the public, especially since they are expected to discharge their academic responsibilities impartially. As VCs, they should have remained vigilant at a time when attempts are being made to undermine the secular character of universities. They must express their regret to the public for attending the event,” Mr. John said here on Sunday (June 14).

Stating that the State government has limitations in initiating action against the VCs, he said it is the Governor who appoints them. He also urged the academic community to preserve the independence and autonomy of universities.

On the Malayidamthuruth land dispute, he said that an agreement regarding this would be signed on Monday (June 15), bringing relief to members of the seven families who faced the threat of eviction.