Kannur, May 2 -- In a twist of political irony, the LDF government halted the promotion of a Left-leaning assistant professor to associate professor in an aided college in Kasaragod following his participation in two Bharat Bandhs in 2020 against the BJP-led Union government--the nationwide strikes backed by the CPM-led LDF.

In February 2025, the Kannur University Syndicate approved the promotion of the Microbiology assistant professor under the Career Advancement Scheme (CAS), along with around 10 other teachers. This decision followed a thorough review of their academic records and interviews conducted by a duly constituted selection committee. In March, the Syndicate approved the promotion of another 30 teachers.

However, when his co...