Bindu has crossed a line, says Congress

Alleging graft and nepotism, party asks Higher Education Minister to resign by Tuesday

The Congress seems to have issued an ultimatum demanding the resignation of Higher Education Minister R. Bindu. Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala said Ms. Bindu had crossed a line by insisting that Governor Arif Mohammed Khan disband the search committee constituted to find a suitable academic as Vice Chancellor for Kannur University. The Minister had brazenly demanded that Mr. Khan extend the tenure of the current Vice Chancellor, who was due for retirement.

Brandishing the contentious letter, Mr. Chennithala said Ms. Bindu had violated the oath of office. She had indulged in corruption and nepotism. Mr. Chennithala said he would move the Loka Ayuka against Ms. Bindu’s maladministration. “She should quit by Tuesday,” he said.

Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan said Ms. Bindu’s continuation in office was legally untenable. The government should brace itself for street protests to protect the autonomy of varsities.