VASU KOTTAL Vs. KERALA KALAMANDALAM

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The petitioner is the father of a student of the first respondent Kerala Kalamandalam. He is aggrieved of the inaction on the part of the respondents in solving the menace of political intrusions in the campus of the institution, which according to the petitioner spoils the career of students. The petitioner points out that, because of frequent strikes and such other activities in connection with the political activitism, about 27 days were lost in the previous academic year and that, no effective steps are being pursued by the respondent/s to prevent such objectionable activities within the premises. The unique teaching method of Kalamandalam and its high pedigree is sought to be highlighted in the writ petition.

(2.) It is pointed out by the learned Counsel for the petitioner that because of the action of undesirable elements, who are behind the curtain and who are desirous of causing intrusion by making use of campus and students to propagate their political ideology, cordial atmosphere in the campus is spoiled, also adversely affecting the studies and teaching. It is pointed out that the teaching method imparted in the Kalamandalam is 'Gurukula' type, where the students are residing within the campus. It is also pointed out that there is a duty cast upon the respondents to prevent such political activities within the premises/campus; more so in view of the law declared by this Court in Sojan Francis v. M.G. University, 2003 KHC 458 : 2003 (2) KLT 582 : 2003 (1) KLJ 679 : ILR 2003 (2) Ker. 538 : AIR 2003 Ker. 290 , Kerala Students Union v. Sojan Francis, 2004 KHC 594 : 2004 (2) KLT 378 : ILR 2004 (3) Ker. 105 and in S.N.M. College v. S.I. of Police, 2007 (1) KHC 9 : 2007 (1) KLT 282 : ILR 2007 (1) Ker. 5 .

(3.) Heard the learned Standing Counsel appearing for the respondents as well.