Kerala CM to team up with non-BJP chief ministers to challenge UGC draft regulations

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has strongly criticised the new draft regulations introduced by the University Grants Commission (UGC). On Wednesday, he announced plans to work alongside non-BJP chief ministers to resist these proposed changes, which he claims undermine the constitutional rights of states over higher education.

The CM revealed that he had written to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, urging him to review the Draft UGC Regulations 2025. He stated that the draft norms encroach on state authority, particularly in the selection of Vice Chancellors (VCs), a responsibility that traditionally falls within state jurisdiction.

In his letter, the CM called for the suspension of the draft regulations and suggested that discussions be held with state governments, academicians, and other relevant stakeholders. He emphasised that cooperative federalism and a consensual approach are vital in India's governance system.

Concerns over Vice Chancellor appointments

Pinarayi Vijayan also voiced concerns regarding the proposal to allow individuals without teaching or research experience to be appointed as Vice Chancellors, as outlined in the draft regulations. “I also express my concern about the move to consider appointing individuals without teaching or research experience as Vice-Chancellors,” he said, calling it a flawed approach.

In his press briefing, he disclosed that he had also reached out to other non-BJP chief ministers to join forces against the new UGC draft norms. He stated that Kerala was leading the charge in forming a collective response to the issue.

The CM also criticised the draft regulations as an attempt by the central government to overstep its boundaries. He argued that the proposed changes violate the federal structure of India, which reserves certain powers for state governments. “These draft rules aim to undermine federal principles and eliminate states' rights regarding universities,” he said.

He also questioned the proposal to make the Chancellor the sole authority in forming the search-cum-selection committee for appointing Vice Chancellors. According to the CM, this would give the central government control over the appointment of state university heads, thus centralising power.

Political audacity, state rights

The CM condemned the move to exclude state governments from nominating members to the selection panel for Vice Chancellors. He described it as an act of “political audacity,” suggesting that it would allow the ruling party at the Centre to exert influence over state-funded universities.

He also highlighted the massive investments states have made in higher education despite financial constraints, accusing the Centre of pushing forward these changes without consulting states or academic professionals.

The Draft UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment and Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Measures for Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations, 2025 were released last week. According to the Union Ministry of Education, these draft guidelines are designed to provide universities with greater flexibility in appointing and promoting teachers and academic staff.

Agency