In Kerala, the management of the Newman College at Thodupuzha in Idukki district has terminated the services of Professor T J Joseph, whose hand was chopped off by a seven member gang for preparing a question paper with objectionable reference to the Prophet. The Newman College Manager Father Thomas Malayakudi said the decision to terminate the services was taken for preparing the question paper in a manner that disturbed communal amity and peace. He said the management considered the report of a two member inquiry committee and added that it was not satisfied with the explanation given by the Professor. Expressing shock at the Management's decision to terminate his services, Prof Joseph said in Muvattupuzha that he was too weak both physically and mentally to decide on the future course of action. It may be recalled that attackers chopped off the palm of Prof T J Joseph at Muvattupuzha while he was returning from church on July 4 along with his family members.