Thiruvananthapuram, June 27 (India Today): In an unexpected turn of events, hours before he was to attend a function at the Kerala University Senate Hall, Governor Rajendra Arlekar conveyed his concerns about the escalation of protests over the display of an image of Bharat Mata carrying a saffron flag potentially leading to disruptions in peaceful coexistence within the state. The letter was delivered to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan through an emissary on Wednesday afternoon.
The governor’s apprehensions came to fruition as skirmishes erupted between Students’ Federation of India (SFI) and Kerala Students Union (KSU) workers on the Senate House campus, during protests against the contentious display. Police and activists from the Sangh Parivar intervened in these clashes.
The governor’s letter highlights his deep concern that such incidents may escalate further, potentially disrupting the harmonious coexistence of diverse communities within Kerala. The current political climate remains under close scrutiny as authorities attempt to restore order and maintain peace on campus.
This development comes as part of a series of protests across various educational institutions in Kerala against the display of images of Bharat Mata carrying a saffron flag, which have sparked controversy and heated debates about religious symbols and national unity.
As investigations continue and tensions persist on campus, both the state government and university administration are taking steps to ensure safety and security for students, faculty, and visitors, while addressing the concerns raised by Governor Arlekar and upholding the values of peaceful coexistence that Kerala is known for. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
