Non-BJP-ruled States in South India oppose UGC’s proposed guidelines

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at the National Higher Education Convention in Thiruvananthapuram, organised in the wake of nationwide criticism against the Draft UGC Regulations 2025. Photo: Special Arrangement

The governments of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Telangana reaffirmed their opposition to the University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations, 2025, at a convention held in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday (February 20, 2025).

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who inaugurated the event, warned that the proposed guidelines could undermine India’s federal structure by diminishing the role of State governments in higher education. The CPI(M) leader noted that the regulations would infringe upon the powers of State legislatures, particularly regarding the appointment of Vice-Chancellors of State universities.

Mr. Vijayan condemned the provisions allowing non-academics, including industry and public administration professionals, to be appointed Vice-Chancellors, calling the move politically motivated and detrimental to academic standards. He was also critical of the removal of the Academic Performance Indicator (API) system, which previously ensured accountability in faculty promotions.

Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka echoed these concerns, accusing the Centre and the UGC of undermining State autonomy in a matter on the Concurrent List. “It is akin to saying, ‘You pay the bill, but you cannot order the food,’” the Congress leader remarked.

He flagged potential setbacks to the Gross Enrolment Ratio owing to common university entrance tests for undergraduate programmes, warning that they could disadvantage students from marginalised backgrounds. He also opposed the proposed minimum enrolment criterion of 3,000 students per institution, stating it would adversely affect colleges serving backward areas.

Karnataka Higher Education Minister M.C. Sudhakar raised concerns over imposing foreign education models without considering India’s diverse educational landscape. The Congress leader warned against excessive privatisation, arguing that policies must prioritise accessibility for students from economically weaker sections.

Tamil Nadu Higher Education Minister Govi. Chezhiaan said it was ironic that the State governments were being excluded from the appointment process while making them bear the financial burden of universities. “We do not beg for alms, but demand our rightful share in the decision-making process,” the DMK leader said.

Leader of the Opposition in Kerala, V.D. Satheesan, cautioned that the draft regulations would centralise power and compromise academic excellence. The Congress leader alleged that the punitive measures outlined in the regulations were covert attempts to inject ruling party ideologies into the education system.

Kerala Higher Education Minister R. Bindu, delivering the presidential address, accused the UGC of overstepping its mandate by consistently meddling in the affairs of universities and colleges. She said the agency was being used as an instrument for ideological infiltration.