Overview
- Dr. Shaija Andavan, a mechanical engineering professor at NIT-Calicut, has been appointed as Dean of Planning and Development starting March 7, 2025.
- The controversy stems from a 2024 social media comment in which Andavan expressed pride in Nathuram Godse, Mahatma Gandhi's assassin, a post she later deleted.
- Political parties, including the Congress and CPI(M), have strongly opposed her appointment, with protests planned by student groups such as DYFI and SFI.
- Critics argue the appointment undermines Gandhi's legacy, while Andavan defends her qualifications, citing her leadership experience at NIT-Calicut.
- Andavan was previously arrested and released on bail under IPC Section 153 for her comment, and the legal case against her is ongoing.