Education Policy Clash: UGC's New Draft Sparks Political Debate

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan criticized Congress for allegedly spreading misinformation about the UGC's draft recruitment norms. The regulations propose changes in vice-chancellor appointments, allowing governors significant roles. Congress argues this undermines federalism, while Pradhan defends the policy as consistent with past practices.

On Monday, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan accused the Congress party of spreading misinformation regarding the University Grants Commission's (UGC) draft recruitment regulations. Pradhan defended the practice of governors appointing university vice-chancellors, a tradition reportedly established before India's Independence.

The UGC recently unveiled draft regulations intending to redefine the process for appointing assistant professors and vice-chancellors. These changes include granting state governors extensive control over vice-chancellor appointments and permitting non-academic individuals to fill these roles.

Congress's leader, Mallikarjun Kharge, criticized the draft as an assault on federalism and state rights. He stressed that the proposal could diminish academic governance. Meanwhile, Pradhan insisted that the regulations adhere to past norms and accused Congress of misleading the public.

(With inputs from agencies.)