MP Bishnu Pada Ray Opposes Private University Regulation in A&N, Advocates for Central University

Port Blair, India Jul 24, 2026 ALN: Member of Parliament Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray has urged the Lieutenant Governor of and to keep the proposed Private University Regulation, 2026 in abeyance and instead pursue the long-pending demand for establishing a Central University in the region. This appeal comes as part of a broader dialogue regarding higher education in the and , a union territory of India known for its unique cultural and geographical characteristics.

In a detailed representation submitted to the Lieutenant Governor on July 21, 2026, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray expressed serious concerns over the proposed Regulation and endorsed the objections raised by Hindu Rashtra Shakti (HRS) in its representation dated July 18, 2026. The MP's advocacy reflects a growing sentiment among local leaders and citizens who believe that the establishment of a Central University would better serve the educational needs of the region compared to the introduction of private institutions.

Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray stated that the people of the and have consistently demanded a Central University to provide quality, affordable, and publicly funded higher education. The region has a distinct demographic and educational landscape that necessitates tailored educational solutions, making the establishment of a Central University a priority for many residents. He highlighted that there has been no public demand or demonstrated need for establishing a private university in the region, which raises questions about the motivations behind the proposed Regulation.

The MP pointed out that no demand assessment, feasibility study, financial viability report, or policy paper has been placed in the public domain to justify the proposed Regulation. This lack of transparency is concerning, as it undermines the democratic process and the ability of stakeholders to engage with and influence educational policy. He also questioned whether any reputed private educational institution has approached the Administration for setting up such a university, further indicating the absence of a solid foundation for this initiative.

Expressing concern over certain provisions of the draft Regulation, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray stated that they could give rise to apprehensions that existing Government colleges, public infrastructure, and educational assets may, in the future, be brought under a private university framework. This potential shift could have significant implications for the accessibility and affordability of education in the region. He clarified that while he was not alleging any predetermined intention, these concerns require clear safeguards and categorical clarification from the Administration to alleviate fears among the public.

He further observed that the proposed institutional framework appears to be largely officer-centric, with inadequate representation of independent educationists, the University Grants Commission, teachers, students, and elected representatives. This lack of diverse input could lead to a disconnect between educational policy and the actual needs of the student population, which is particularly critical in a region with unique challenges and opportunities.

Mr. Ray emphasized that a Central University would provide assured Central funding, affordable education, better faculty recruitment, enhanced research opportunities, and specialized courses in marine sciences, fisheries, biodiversity, disaster management, tribal studies, island ecology, and strategic studies. These areas are highly relevant to the unique needs of the and , which are characterized by their rich biodiversity and vulnerability to climate change. A Central University could also serve as a hub for research and innovation, attracting scholars and practitioners to address the pressing issues facing the region.

The MP has requested the Administration to place all relevant policy documents, feasibility studies, and details of the proposal in the public domain and to hold a transparent public consultation before taking any final decision. This call for transparency is crucial in fostering trust between the government and the public, ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered in the decision-making process.

He has also urged the Administration to incorporate explicit safeguards to ensure that existing Government colleges, students, employees, Government land, and infrastructure are not transferred, integrated, or brought under any private university arrangement without due approval and public consultation. The potential for such transfers raises significant concerns about the future of public education in the region and the rights of existing students and staff.

Mr. Ray has appealed to the Lieutenant Governor to recommend and vigorously pursue the establishment of a Central University with the Government of India, stating that it would best serve the long-term educational aspirations of the people of the and . The establishment of a Central University could also contribute to regional development, economic growth, and social progress, aligning with national educational goals.

Copies of the representation have also been forwarded to the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, Union Minister of Education, Chairman of the University Grants Commission, and the Chief Secretary of the Administration for their information and appropriate action. This action underscores the MP's commitment to advocating for the educational rights of the people of his constituency and ensuring that their voices are heard at the highest levels of government.

In conclusion, the ongoing debate over the proposed Private University Regulation in the and highlights the complexities and challenges of educational policy in a unique geographical and cultural context. As discussions continue, the emphasis on public consultation, transparency, and the prioritization of a Central University reflects a broader desire for a more equitable and accessible educational landscape in the region. The outcomes of these discussions will have lasting implications for the future of higher education and the socio-economic development of the and .