The Congress criticized the government for the significant number of vacancies in key higher education regulatory bodies. They also opposed the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan (VBSA) Bill, 2025, citing concerns. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh highlighted issues with the Bill, including lack of consultation with state governments and its potential impact on State universities.
Ramesh pointed out that the Bill’s introduction under Entry 66 of the Union List exceeds the legislative powers granted to Parliament. He argued that the proposed legislation infringes on the authority of State governments, contrary to constitutional provisions. The Congress leader emphasized that the Bill violates the federal structure of the Constitution.
Additionally, Ramesh raised objections to the Bill diverging from the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 framework. He criticized the centralization of power proposed by the Bill, which he believes contradicts the NEP’s principles. Ramesh expressed concerns about the bureaucratic influence in the administration of education under the new Bill.
The Congress leader also highlighted potential implications for Institutes of National Importance (INIs) under the proposed legislation. He expressed apprehension that the Bill could compromise the academic autonomy of prestigious institutions like IITs and IIMs. Ramesh contrasted the new framework with existing laws governing regulatory bodies, emphasizing the shift in decision-making powers.
Ramesh further noted changes in the approval process for technical education institutions under the proposed Bill. He stressed that the National Education Policy 2020 advocates for increased autonomy in higher education institutes, which he believes the Bill contradicts.
