Assam tightens regulations for private universities' operations

The Assam government is introducing stricter rules for private universities in the state. Under new legislation, these institutions must obtain national security clearance before they can start operating. The Assam Private Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was presented in the state assembly by Education Minister Ranoj Pegu. It requires universities to uphold secular values and prohibits any form of religious conversion. The bill also includes regular government inspections every three years and could lead to cancellation of a university's registration if it violates the rules. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the importance of these measures. He stated that private universities must secure national security certificates from the Home and Political Department. They cannot engage in any activities that promote religious conversions. Additionally, Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor of the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM), was recently arrested for alleged exam malpractice linked to a school under his foundation. Last year, he faced accusations from Sarma regarding environmental issues related to the university's activities. The chief minister confirmed that the new regulations would also affect USTM.