Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has accused the Centre and the University Grants Commission (UGC) of attempting to destabilize higher education institutions in the state. Speaking at the inauguration of an international conclave on next-generation higher education organized by the Kerala Higher Education Department, Vijayan cited the latest UGC draft regulations as a major threat to the autonomy of state universities.

The Chief Minister expressed concerns over the UGC’s alleged overreach, stating that these regulations undermine the independence granted to state universities by laws passed in elected legislative assemblies.

Vijayan clarified that while Kerala supports setting minimum qualifications for teacher appointments and similar measures, the UGC’s latest actions “overstep its boundaries.” He noted that state universities are primarily funded by state resources, with only minimal contributions from the Centre.

“It is disappointing to see the Union Government and UGC adopting measures aimed at destabilizing institutions under state jurisdiction,” Vijayan said. “The latest UGC draft regulations are a clear example of this encroachment, threatening the autonomy of state universities.”

He urged the Centre and UGC to respect the autonomy of universities and the rights of state governments in education. “Such actions not only harm public universities but also erode the credibility of the UGC itself. These efforts could lead to the collapse of a publicly funded, efficient higher education system, paving the way for the dominance of private educational institutions,” he warned.

The CM’s remarks come shortly after he criticized the Draft UGC Regulations 2025, which he claims strip states of their authority to appoint Vice Chancellors and grant excessive powers to Chancellors.

The draft guidelines, released last week, aim to provide universities with greater flexibility in appointing and promoting teachers and academic staff, according to the Union Education Ministry.

Vijayan also highlighted Kerala’s progress in higher education, emphasizing the state’s significant structural changes and commitment to transforming itself into a national hub for higher education. Despite financial challenges, the Kerala government has consistently safeguarded funds allocated to the education sector, he added.

This international conclave assumes greater importance in light of the Kerala government’s efforts to bolster its higher education system and address the challenges posed by the UGC regulations.