Kerala Assembly Passes Controversial Private Universities Bill Amid Opposition Concerns

The Kerala Legislative Assembly has passed the Private Universities Bill, which allows private universities to operate in the state. Despite opposition expressing concerns about accountability and the impact on public universities, the government defends the bill as a progressive move with strict regulations to maintain educational standards.

In a heated session on Tuesday, the Kerala Legislative Assembly approved the Private Universities Bill, opening doors for private universities to establish their presence in the state. The bill navigated intense scrutiny and opposition debates before being passed. State Higher Education Minister R Bindu championed the bill, labeling it a forward-thinking initiative for Kerala's education landscape, with assurances of stringent regulations to uphold academic quality.

Opposition parties voiced significant concerns, particularly surrounding fee structures and admissions policies. While not against the principle of the bill, critics, led by Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan, expressed apprehensions about the potential adverse effects on existing public universities and colleges. Satheesan emphasized the need for the government to balance opportunities for private institutions with accountability and priority for public education.

Senior Congress member Ramesh Chennithala raised issues of student migration, questioning the bill's efficacy in addressing the trend. He suggested a comprehensive study, advocating for inviting global universities to establish campuses in Kerala. Meanwhile, RMP MLA K.K. Rema staunchly opposed the bill, condemning it as a step towards education commercialization. Despite these concerns, the bill was passed via voice vote and awaits the Governor's approval to become law.

(With inputs from agencies.)