Universities Must Regulate Student Political Activities To Prevent Campus Violence: Kerala High Court

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Syam Kumar V M issued the direction while hearing a batch of writ petitions, including a public interest litigation filed in the aftermath of an incident at Maharaja's College, Ernakulam which resulted in the death of a student.

Referring to earlier orders, the Bench noted that long-term regulatory measures are necessary to address political conflicts among students and to prevent violence on campuses.

The Court directed the Syndicates of all universities which are parties to the proceedings to frame specific rules to regulate student political activities and ensure campus discipline. The Bench emphasised that academic pursuits should not be compromised due to political influence or disturbances.

The Court took note of the Mahatma Gandhi University Students' Code of Conduct Rules, 2005, which were framed to enforce good conduct within classrooms and campuses. It permitted other universities to consider these rules as a model framework and directed them to frame appropriate regulations on similar lines.

All universities were instructed to place the newly framed rules before the High Court on or before the next date of hearing.

The rules are also to be shared with the Additional Advocate General, who has been requested to examine them and suggest modifications, keeping in mind the objective of insulating educational institutions from political interference.

The matter is posted on 4 March for further consideration.

Case Title: Ajoy L S v The State of Kerala and Ors. and Connected matter

Case No: WP(C) 22905/ 2018 and connected matter

Counsel for the Petitioner: Sajeev Kumar K Gopal

Counsel for the Respondents: Asok M Cherian (Adl. AG), T S Syam Prasanth (GP), Thomas Abraham