GUWAHATI: The Assam Legislative Assembly has cleared an important Bill placing curbs on private universities from pursuing activities connected with religious conversion of students, teachers, and employees.
The step has been taken to keep the educational institutions secular in nature and ensure no excessive religious influence is created within academic institutions.
In addition to this Bill, the House also adopted the creation of three new universities and amendments to the Acts of nine existing institutions. Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu tabled the Bills for discussion and adoption, with one of the main topics being a change in the Assam Private Universities Act, 2007.
The Assam Private Universities Bill, 2025, strictly prohibits private universities from engaging in any religious conversion activities. These institutions are made compulsory to adhere to a secular character, and thus, ensure a neutral and inclusive academic setting. This move reflects the seriousness of the state government in enforcing secular values within the education system.
Moreover, the Bill also suggests prohibiting private universities from introducing new courses in technical, medical, paramedical, nursing, and agriculture-related areas. This ban will be enforced from April 1, 2025, and is designed to rationalize higher education in Assam by making such special courses follow state-approved academic schemes.
Further assuring accountability, the amendment insists that private universities seek a security clearance report from the Assam Home and Political Department. This report will evaluate the antecedents and integrity of the sponsoring authority while being transparent and compliant with regulations.
The Bill further makes provision for regular state inspections, with universities subject to review every three years to ensure compliance with establishment conditions. Any lapse in these conditions will lead to the winding up of the university, according to the amended Act.
On the side, the House also endorsed the EdTech Skills University Bill, 2025, introduced to launch a private university of higher education with an emphasis on research and learning that will cater specifically to the aspirations of NEP.
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