Smita Mishra 
The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has expressed strong objections to the draft University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations, 2025, citing concerns over the centralized appointment of vice-chancellors and academic staff in state universities. In a letter to the UGC chairman, BJD Coordination & Activities Committee chairman Debi Prasad Mishra emphasized the need for a more inclusive and participatory approach to appointment processes.
Concerns Over Centralization and Federalism
The BJD’s primary concern is that the draft regulations grant absolute power to governors of states, and by extension, the central government, to appoint vice-chancellors and academic staff without consulting state governments. This move is seen as a significant threat to the principles of federalism, which are enshrined in the Indian Constitution. The BJD argues that such centralization undermines the autonomy of state universities and institutions of higher learning.
Impact on Academic Autonomy
The draft regulations have also been criticized for their potential impact on academic autonomy. By giving the central government significant control over appointments, the regulations could compromise the independence of state universities and institutions. This, in turn, could affect the quality of education and research in these institutions.
Demand for Inclusive Appointment Processes
The BJD has urged the UGC to reconsider the draft regulations and ensure that appointment processes are transparent, participatory, and inclusive. The party has suggested that search-cum-selection committees for vice-chancellors should include representatives from state governments and concerned universities. This would help to ensure that state governments play a significant role in the selection and appointment process.
UGC Guidelines for VC Appointment
According to the UGC guidelines, the appointment of vice-chancellors should be made through a transparent and merit-based process. The guidelines recommend the formation of a search-cum-selection committee, which should include experts from various fields. However, the draft regulations have been criticized for not providing adequate representation to state governments and universities in these committees.
Role of State Governments in VC Appointments
The BJD has emphasized the importance of state governments playing a significant role in the appointment of vice-chancellors. The party argues that state governments are best placed to understand the needs and requirements of their respective universities and institutions. By involving state governments in the appointment process, the UGC can ensure that the best candidates are selected for the position of vice-chancellor.
Way Forward
The BJD has urged the UGC to consider its concerns and make necessary amendments to the draft regulations. The party has emphasized the need for consultation and collaboration between the UGC, state governments, and universities to foster a spirit of cooperative governance. By doing so, the UGC can ensure that the appointment processes are transparent, inclusive, and respectful of federalism and academic autonomy.
The BJD’s opposition to the draft UGC regulations highlights the need for a more inclusive and participatory approach to appointment processes in state universities. By ensuring that state governments and universities are involved in these processes, the UGC can help to protect the autonomy of these institutions and promote the principles of federalism. The UGC must reconsider the draft regulations and make necessary amendments to address the concerns of state governments and universities.
