A fresh controversy has surfaced over a 2018 file note concerning the establishment of a Deemed University in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, after a clarification was sought from the Chief Secretary regarding an observation that allegedly recorded prior consultation with the then sitting Member of Parliament.
In a formal communication addressed to the Chief Secretary, Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament, referred to a note sheet dated December 24, 2018, submitted by the Deputy Secretary (Higher Education) to the Secretary (Education) and the Chief Secretary. The document, accessed under the Right to Information Act, reportedly stated that the Lt. Governor had desired the proposal for establishing a Deemed University in the islands be placed before the Ministry of Home Affairs and the concerned Minister of Parliament.
According to the representation, the file note contained an observation attributed to the then Chief Secretary stating that the Member of Parliament had been informed personally when the Andaman and Nicobar BJP Chief was also present. Ray categorically denied this assertion, stating that at no point was he informed, consulted or formally apprised about the proposal to establish the Deemed University.
He maintained that neither his consent nor his views were sought before the Administration proceeded with the decision. He further stated that the decision was taken unilaterally and subsequently announced by the Prime Minister during his visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on December 30, 2018. No consultation was held with him in his capacity as the elected representative, he asserted.
The representation also noted that to verify the accuracy of the file observation, he personally contacted former BJP State President Vishal Jolly. According to the letter, Jolly confirmed that no such discussion took place in his presence and that no opinion or views were sought from him regarding the proposal. The communication requested that the Administration independently verify this claim if necessary.
The issue has gained renewed attention amid ongoing demands from islanders for the establishment of a full-fledged Central University instead of a Deemed University. The letter stated that there is unanimous public demand for a Central University and that he stands with the grievances raised by the residents. However, he argued that the observation recorded in the 2018 file note has portrayed his position as contradictory before the public.
In the communication, he reiterated three key points: that no opinion or consent was obtained from him regarding the Deemed University’s establishment; that no consultation took place in his presence alongside the then State BJP President; and that the remarks recorded in the official file were incorrect and misleading.
He has requested an urgent clarification from the Chief Secretary and sought copies of any written communication, opinion or record purportedly obtained from him or from the then State BJP President in connection with the proposal.
The development adds another layer to the continuing debate over higher education governance in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the circumstances surrounding the transition to the Deemed University framework.
