Proposed Higher Education Bill in Bihar: Employee Union Opens Front After Teachers' Association, Expresses Deep Concern
Patna: The opposition to the preparations for changing rules related to the higher education system in Bihar is constantly escalating. Along with teacher organizations, university and college employee associations have also strongly reacted to the proposed amendments in the Bihar State Universities Act and the proposal for the reorganization of colleges by the state government. The unions believe that these changes will have an adverse impact on the quality and autonomy of higher education.
Employees Express Deep Objection, Apprehension of Autonomy Weakening
The Bihar State Universities and Colleges Employees Federation along with various regional units has expressed deep resentment over the proposed amendment. Representatives of the union state that:
Impact on Academic Bodies: The effectiveness of the academic council, board of studies, faculty, examination committee, and other statutory bodies of universities will be directly affected by this proposed system.
Crisis on Service Conditions: Service-related problems of employees and teachers may increase, which will hurt their rights and interests.
Against National Education Policy: The attempt to separate colleges from universities and bring them under the direct control of the education department appears to be against the core spirit of the National Education Policy (NEP).
Strong Opposition Also Coming from Teachers
Earlier, college teacher associations and federations had also launched a campaign against this bill. The argument of the teachers is that:
Division of cadres and changes in administrative control will reduce the independence of universities.
Making such major changes in a sensitive sector like higher education without comprehensive consultation with stakeholders is not appropriate.
This can also seriously affect the academic interests of students.
Demand for Reconsideration from Chancellor and Government
Various teacher and employee unions have demanded the Hon'ble Governor-cum-Chancellor and the state government to intervene in this entire matter. The unions have appealed that to save the dignity, autonomy, and academic environment of universities, the controversial provisions of this proposed bill should be withdrawn and a decision should be taken only after establishing dialogue with all parties.
