Kerala's Legal Battle Against UGC Draft Regulations

Kerala's Higher Education Minister R Bindu announced plans to challenge the central government's draft UGC regulations legally. The state also called for a National Education Convention on February 20 to protest against the draft, citing concerns over constitutional violations and inadequate academic consultations.

Kerala's Higher Education Minister, R Bindu, has vowed legal action against the Union government's proposed draft UGC regulations. During the Question Hour in the Assembly, Bindu highlighted the state's concerns over meager funding for higher education, which prompted plans for a legal review.

In response to growing discontent, the Higher Education Department will host a National Education Convention on February 20 in Thiruvananthapuram, rallying education ministers nationwide. The Kerala Assembly passed a resolution urging the Centre to withdraw the draft regulations and push for consultations with state governments and academic experts.

Bindu alleged that the UGC has deviated from its intended objectives, criticizing the cessation of key scholarships and fellowships. She argued that the draft regulations align with a political agenda, lacking emphasis on academic excellence in appointing university officials.

(With inputs from agencies.)