The Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit (SSUS) authorities have initiated action following the controversy over the last-minute cancellation of the release of Sri Tirthapada Puranam, a biography of Chattampi Swamikal, published by the varsity.The release of the book was cancelled after the authorities reportedly found that only four volumes were printed, while the other bound volumes kept in a box were blank.Vice-Chancellor Ciza Thomas issued a notice on Monday to V. Lissy Mathew, Professor, Malayalam department and co-ordinator of the project, seeking a report on all the aspects related to the publication of the book.The Vice-Chancellor had also directed the Registrar to lodge a police complaint against the printing press in Aluva, which undertook the work, on allegations that it had undertaken the printing without any agreement or relevant orders from the varsity. A representative of the printing press said that they acted upon the instructions of the project co-ordinator.Prof. Mathew, who had earlier held the post of senior publication officer, said that the printing of the remaining volumes could not be completed for want of funds. She alleged that the Vice-Chancellor had withheld the release of about ₹6.93 lakh assistance in March 2026 following a financial crunch and had directed the release of the finished volumes without incurring any additional financial liability.The Association of Sreesankaracharya Sanskrit University Teachers has alleged a conspiracy behind the spreading of reported fake news against the varsity in connection with the publication of the book. A proper inquiry shall be conducted into the incidents, it demanded. Published - April 28, 2026 10:13 pm IST