SFI Activists Disrupt Convocation Ceremony at Maharaja’s College, Minister Departs

On Friday, October 30, 2026, a convocation ceremony at Maharaja’s College in Ernakulam, Kerala, was interrupted when Student Federation of India (SFI) activists staged a protest, leading to the early departure of Higher Education Minister Roji M. John.

Sequence of Events

• The protest began shortly after the Minister delivered his inaugural address.
• Activists confronted the Minister on stage, demanding answers regarding the suspension of 16 students from Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit in Kalady.
• The students were reportedly suspended for protesting against Vice-Chancellor Ciza Thomas, and the activists demanded the Minister retract his alleged statements concerning these students.
• Despite the Minister’s initial offer to engage in a discussion after the event, protesters persisted, leading to a scuffle and the subsequent departure of the Minister from the venue.

Reactions and Official Stance

The Minister stated that while he welcomes democratic protest, violence will not be tolerated. Following his departure, the ceremony resumed as scheduled.

Ernakulam MLA T.J. Vinod condemned the disruption and has called for a detailed inquiry to identify those responsible for the incident and to ensure appropriate action is taken. The Government College Teachers Organisation has also issued a statement condemning the event and supporting the demand for a formal investigation.