UGC draft on VC appointments sparks federalism debate in Tamil Nadu

The University Grants Commission's draft regulation 2025, granting the central government authority over universities through the appointment of governors and control over vice-chancellor appointments, is considered a direct assault as these posts were directly held by the central authority, said MK Stalin, Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, on Tuesday. Chief Minister MK Stalin has strongly criticised the Union BJP government over the draft University Grants Commission regulations, 2025, calling it an 'authoritarian' move to centralise power and undermine state governments. UNDER UGC's DRAFT GUIDELINES The UGC’s draft guidelines prescribe minimum qualifications for appointing and promoting teachers and academic staff in universities and colleges, along with measures to maintain higher education standards. Posting on social media platform X, he said, “Education must remain in the hands of those chosen by the people, not dictated by governors acting at the BJP government’s behest.” Stalin further noted that Tamil Nadu, which leads the country with the highest number of top-ranking higher education institutions, would not stay silent as its autonomy is compromised.