Opposition States Challenge UGC’s Draft Regulations
Six opposition-ruled states have strongly opposed the University Grants Commission (UGC) draft regulations, calling for their immediate withdrawal. The states argue that the new rules undermine state autonomy and violate federal principles, making them unacceptable.
On Wednesday, Congress criticized the justification that these regulations are part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, dismissing the argument as weak. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh highlighted that the State Higher Education Ministers’ Conclave, held in Bengaluru, had unanimously opposed the proposed changes. The event, hosted by Karnataka’s Higher Education Minister M.C. Sudhakar, saw participation from ministers representing Karnataka, Telangana, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh, and Jharkhand.
During the meeting, the ministers adopted a 15-point resolution, describing the UGC Draft Regulations, 2025, as “draconian.”
Federalism and Autonomy in Higher Education
Ramesh emphasized the significance of federalism in governance, urging the Centre to respect the rights of state governments, particularly in higher education. He stated that NEP 2020 does not override constitutional principles and should not be used to justify regulations that diminish state control over universities.
A key issue raised was the selection process for vice-chancellors (VCs) in state public universities. The joint resolution expressed concern over the exclusion of state governments from this process, terming it a direct violation of their jurisdiction.
Another controversial provision is the allowance of non-academicians to be appointed as VCs, which the ministers argued could compromise academic integrity and decision-making.
Concerns Over Faculty Recruitment Rules
The opposition states also criticized changes in faculty recruitment, particularly the removal of the API (Academic Performance Indicators) system. They argued that this change increases discretion in hiring decisions, making the process less transparent.
Additionally, the eligibility criteria for assistant professors came under scrutiny, especially the rule allowing candidates without degrees in core subjects to apply for academic positions. The ministers called for a thorough review of these provisions before finalizing the guidelines.
Other issues raised included the lack of clarity on policies regarding guest faculty, visiting professors, and emeritus professors. The ministers also described the penalties for non-compliance with the new regulations as excessive and undemocratic, warning that such measures could undermine institutional autonomy.
Fears of Privatization and Industry-Academia Collaboration
The conclave also voiced concerns over the impact of the new grading system, stating that it appears to favor private colleges over public universities. The ministers urged the UGC to promote stronger industry-academia collaboration within public institutions, fostering research and innovation without favoring private entities.
Labeling the regulations as “dictatorial,” the ministers argued that enforcing punitive measures for non-compliance with NEP provisions contradicts the foundational principles of federalism. They reiterated their demand for the rollback of the draft rules and called for greater consultation with stakeholders to ensure balanced higher education reforms.
