A controversy erupted after Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee chief K Sudhakaran issued a statement supporting the alleged nomination of Sangh Parivar supporters to university senates by Governor Arif Mohammed Khan acting in his capacity as the chancellor. Addressing reporters in New Delhi on Tuesday, Sudhakaran stated that in a democracy, the Sangh Parivar is a political entity, and as such, there is no justification for opposing the nomination of qualified individuals merely based on their affiliations.
Sudhakaran added that Congress will thoroughly assess the qualifications and eligibility of the chancellor's nominees. If any are found to be unqualified, the party will actively oppose such appointments.
The Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), the youth wing of the ruling CPI(M) in Kerala, criticized Sudhakaran's statement, alleging collusion between the Congress and BJP in the southern state.
Sudhakaran made these comments in response to allegations by the CPI(M) that the Governor nominated supporters from the Congress and the Muslim League, alongside those affiliated with the Sangh Parivar.
Sudhakaran distanced the Congress from the Governor's actions, stating, "We are not responsible for the actions of the Chancellor."
Sudhakaran acknowledged the presence of Sangh Parivar supporters among the academics but said, "We are not opposing that." Defending the Governor's alleged actions, Sudhakaran said that if the nominees are qualified, their affiliation with Sangh Parivar should not be a deterrent.