Patna: Bihar Legislative Council member Sanjay Kumar Singh has urged Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary to reconsider the proposed restructuring of the state’s higher education system, arguing that the move could have far-reaching consequences for universities, constituent colleges and academic governance.
In a letter dated July 17, Singh referred to recent media reports suggesting that the state government is considering legislation under which constituent undergraduate colleges would no longer function under state universities, but instead come under a separate Higher Education Department. He requested the Chief Minister not to take a final decision without first consulting all stakeholders.
Concerns Over Academic Autonomy
In his representation, Singh argued that universities are not merely administrative institutions but integrated academic bodies responsible for teaching, research, curriculum development, examinations, faculty appointments and maintaining academic standards.
He warned that separating constituent colleges from universities could weaken the existing academic ecosystem and disrupt the continuity between undergraduate and postgraduate education and research.
Questions Impact On Universities
The MLC said the proposed arrangement raises several institutional questions, including the future role of affiliating universities and the functioning of statutory bodies such as Academic Councils and university syndicates.
He contended that reducing universities’ authority over their constituent colleges could diminish their role in academic decision-making and institutional governance, while affecting faculty transfers, deployment and administrative control.
Cites NEP 2020
Referring to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Singh said the policy advocates greater academic and administrative autonomy for higher education institutions rather than increased centralisation.
He argued that strengthening universities would be more consistent with the objectives of the NEP, which seeks to promote multidisciplinary education, innovation and research.
Draws Comparison With Leading Universities
The letter cites institutions such as Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Banaras Hindu University and the University of Hyderabad, stating that their strong institutional structures are built around empowered universities that retain academic control over constituent institutions.
According to Singh, Bihar should strengthen its existing university framework rather than create a parallel administrative structure.
Calls For Stakeholder Consultation
Singh urged the government to invite suggestions from universities, teachers’ organisations, educationists, student representatives and other stakeholders before introducing any legislation that would substantially alter Bihar’s higher education system.
He said a broader public consultation would help ensure that any reforms are practical, transparent and aligned with the long-term interests of higher education in the state.
The letter also noted that several constituent colleges in Bihar were established through donations and later integrated into state universities, arguing that any restructuring should take into account their historical and institutional significance
