Widespread unrest has emerged among students in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands following the government’s decision to establish a Deemed-to-be University under the name of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Higher Education Institution. Students have launched sit-in protests at JNRM College, Sri Vijayapuram, and at Mayabunder, demanding that a Central University be established instead.
The situation has caused anxiety among students, parents, teachers, and the general public, reflecting growing concern over the direction of higher education in the Union Territory. Many students, along with local education associations and community representatives, have voiced strong opposition to the decision, calling for a more transparent and inclusive approach.
Member of Parliament, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Bishnu Pada Ray, addressed a letter to the Lieutenant Governor on February 10, 2026, expressing serious concern over the ongoing unrest. In the letter, he urged that the process of establishing the Deemed-to-be University be kept on hold until a final decision is made by the Government of India and the High Court delivers its judgment.
Ray noted that he had previously written to the Prime Minister of India on December 9, 2025, requesting a review of the decision and advocating for the creation of a Central University. Following this, the Prime Minister directed the Ministry of Home Affairs to examine the matter, which is currently under consideration by the Government of India and the UT Administration.
The decision has also been legally challenged in WP No. 53 of 2026 (Vaishnavi Naidu & 3 Others vs. Andaman & Nicobar Administration), which remains pending before the High Court. The MP warned that moving forward with the Deemed-to-be University during the pendency of the government review and court proceedings could violate principles of law and natural justice, and may further heighten unrest among students and the public.
Bishnu Pada Ray called for urgent intervention to maintain peace, protect student interests, and ensure a fair and transparent decision regarding the future of higher education in the islands. He stressed that careful handling of the matter is essential to avoid escalation and preserve trust in the education system.
The ongoing protests highlight the sensitivity of higher education reforms in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and the need for measured administrative action that considers student concerns and community expectations.
