Bill grants Pro-Chancellor more control over universities

The University Laws (Amendment) (No.2) Bill, 2025, was discussed in the Assembly on Wednesday, leading to a heated debate between government and opposition members. The Bill focuses on three universities in the state, including the Cochin University of Science and Technology. Higher Education Minister R. Bindu defended the proposed changes, saying they are necessary to modernize university governance amid changing educational needs. She criticized the opposition for focusing only on the Pro-Chancellor's role while ignoring the larger reforms in the Bill. Dr. Bindu claimed that the Bill does not give the Pro-Chancellor any new powers but clarifies existing ones. Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan disagreed. He argued that the Bill threatens the autonomy of universities and brings them under more government control. He highlighted concerns about provisions that would allow the Pro-Chancellor to interfere in academic issues and issue binding orders to universities. Satheesan also noted that the proposed legislation could allow the Minister to demand explanations from universities, which he believes could undermine their independence. The Bill has now been sent to the Subject Committee for further examination.