Special Grievance Redressal Cells for Student Empowerment in Kerala Colleges and Varsities
In response to recent events, the Kerala government has mandated that all affiliated colleges, including self-financing institutions and university departments, establish student grievance redressal cells within a month. This decision follows a contentious incident involving the tragic suicide of a student at Amal Jyothi Engineering College.
The student grievance redressal cells will be entrusted with the responsibility of upholding the rights of students through the implementation of the proposed ‘Charter of Students’ Rights’. This charter will be promptly integrated into the university’s regulations, ensuring its immediate enforcement.
These cells will address a range of issues, including violations of merit norms during the admission process, withholding of documents or certificates, charging additional fees for services, inadequate infrastructure facilities, and complaints related to examination conduct.
They have a dedicated role in investigating cases of discrimination, mental or physical torture, and victimisation by college authorities, teachers, students, or staff.
In situations where students have not obtained a satisfactory resolution through existing channels, they can approach the cell for assistance. Furthermore, the cell is responsible for addressing complaints concerning the shortage of classes or tutorials as mandated by university rules.
If students are unsatisfied with the resolution provided by the college-level grievance redressal cell, they can appeal to the appellate body. This mechanism will be chaired by the pro-vice-chancellor and convened by the student dean or director.
The appellate body consists of representatives from the syndicate, student representatives within the syndicate, the chairperson of the university union, three teachers (including one woman and one SC/ST teacher) appointed by the syndicate, and a university official of at least the assistant registrar rank. The appellate body must have a minimum of five members to reach a decision, and once a decision is made, it is considered final.
Through the mandate for the establishment of student grievance redressal cells and the integration of the ‘Charter of Students’ Rights’ into university rules, the Kerala government seeks to proactively tackle and resolve any grievances or injustices that students may encounter. The ultimate goal is to foster a supportive and equitable educational environment for all students.
