Thu Feb 20 13:31:55 UTC 2025: ## Telangana Deputy CM Condemns Central Government’s Education Overreach
**HYDERABAD, February 20, 2025** – Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has strongly criticized the central government’s alleged attempt to assume control over India’s education system. Speaking at a national higher education convention in Thiruvananthapuram, Mr. Vikramarka voiced concerns over new University Grants Commission guidelines, arguing they infringe on states’ rights.
He emphasized that education is a concurrent subject, granting states autonomy to tailor their systems to local needs and student aspirations. Mr. Vikramarka highlighted the central government’s actions as a concerning attempt to control university appointments and admissions while expecting states to fund and manage universities, leaving states with only ceremonial roles. He pointed specifically to the elimination of state governments’ roles in appointing vice-chancellors and search committee members and the amendment of vice-chancellor eligibility criteria as alarming.
The Deputy Chief Minister called for states to unite against this central overreach, suggesting a future conference in Hyderabad to formulate a counter-strategy. He asserted that states are not mere administrative units but vital for the country’s progress, and a unified voice would compel the central government to listen. Mr. Vikramarka urged states to actively voice their opposition and not simply engage in discussions.
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