Kannur: A day after the Kannur University organised a farewell meeting for its outgoing vice-chancellor Gopinath Ravindran, the Governor reappointed him using his 'special powers'.

It is understood to be the first time that a VC has been reappointed in Kerala.

Governor Arif Mohammed Khan reinstated Dr Ravindran after dismissing a three-member search committee recommended by the state government for finding a replacement.

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The reappointment of the 61-year-old is for four more years effective from November 24, 2021.

Dr Ravindran, a graduate of St Stephen's College, Delhi has worked at Jamia Millia Islamia in the past. He had joined Kannur University as VC in November 2017.

The reappointment of Ravindran came amid protest by Save University Campaign Committee (SUCC) against its decision to shortlist the wife of CPI(M) leader K K Ragesh for a teaching post.

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Ragesh, a former Rajya Sabha MP, is the private secretary to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Sources said the Governor has sought a report from the vice-chancellor on the allegations over Ragesh's wife's inclusion in the shortlisted candidates.

SUCC also protested against the reappointment of Ravindran, claiming that as per norms of the University, a person more than 60 years of age shall not be appointed as vice-chancellor.

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