Private Universities Bill passed in Assembly

Govt promises “new era” in higher education

Saqib Rather
Srinagar, April 4: In a major legislative development, the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Saturday passed a bill allowing the establishment of private universities in the Union Territory, a move the government says will significantly expand higher education opportunities for local students.

Cabinet Minister Sakina Itoo described the legislation as a milestone reform, asserting that it would reshape the academic landscape of Jammu and Kashmir and reduce the long-standing dependence on institutions outside the region.
“This is a historic step for our youth. For decades, students from Jammu and Kashmir have had to move outside in search of quality higher education. With this bill, we are creating those opportunities within our own region,” Itoo said.
The legislation provides a comprehensive framework for setting up private universities, with an emphasis on maintaining academic standards, proper infrastructure, and qualified faculty. Government officials said the aim is not only to increase the number of institutions but also to bring in reputed players who can contribute to research, innovation, and skill development.
Education Minister, while introducing the bill, stressed that the policy had been carefully designed to balance expansion with regulation.
“We are opening doors to private participation, but not at the cost of quality. Strict norms and oversight mechanisms have been built into the system to ensure that these institutions serve students, not just commercial interests,” the minister said in the House.
The bill triggered a lively debate in the Assembly, with some members expressing concern over affordability and the possibility of unchecked commercialization. In response, the government maintained that adequate safeguards have been included to ensure transparency and accountability.
“We understand the apprehensions. That is why this law mandates continuous monitoring and compliance with academic standards. There will be no compromise on quality or fairness,” Itoo added.
Officials believe the move could also have wider economic implications by attracting investment, creating jobs, and positioning Jammu and Kashmir as an emerging center for higher education.
With the bill now passed, the focus is expected to shift toward its rollout, as stakeholders watch closely to see how the policy translates into real opportunities for students across the Union Territory.