Key features of the amendment
-
Introduces a minority private university category for institutions established by linguistic and religious minorities under Article 30 of the Constitution.
-
Proposes a reduction in the minimum land requirement for setting up new private universities, addressing challenges posed by urbanisation and rising land costs.
Concerns raised
Critics fear that the bill, passed by the Legislative Assembly on 17 October, could corporatise higher education and limit access for marginalised students.
Government’s response
Chezhiaan clarified that the amendment aims to simplify procedures for establishing new private universities and upgrading existing institutions, while ensuring legal safeguards for students, teachers, and staff. He emphasised that Tamil Nadu will continue to follow reservation policies in appointments, admissions, and fee regulations.
He further noted that the government has not approved de facto universities that ignore state reservations and, based on feedback from legislators and experts, the bill will now undergo a proper review before final implementation.
.jpg)
3.jpg)
