A meeting was held on Sunday evening between Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate of South Andaman, Purva Garg, senior officials, and student representatives to discuss concerns surrounding the proposed transition of higher educational institutions in the islands to a deemed-to-be university framework.
According to information shared after the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner assured that the administration has taken note of the major concerns raised by students and is committed to ensuring that no currently enrolled student faces academic or financial uncertainty. She stated that existing students will continue to receive degrees under the affiliation of Pondicherry University and that there will be no fee hike, as already clarified in official press releases.
However, she also clarified that no confirmation can be provided at this stage regarding admissions for the academic year 2026–2027, noting that future policy decisions will depend on developments at the Government of India level.
Appealing to students and the public not to rely on rumours or unverified social media claims, the Deputy Commissioner advised everyone to carefully read official press releases before believing or sharing any information. She added that many deemed universities across the country are well-established institutions whose alumni include successful professionals in business, information technology, and even scientists working with national organisations such as ISRO. She also noted that she herself studied at a deemed university, emphasising that such institutions can provide strong academic outcomes when implemented properly.
Officials present at the meeting included Dr. Arun Malik, Manoj Paul, Anil Tiwari, and SDM Vishal Ram, while student representatives Tushar Sarkar and Krish also participated in the discussion.
During the meeting, it was further conveyed that if the deemed university framework is implemented, it could allow the introduction of new and locally relevant courses tailored to the needs of the islands, potentially improving academic opportunities and supporting regional development.
Anil Tiwari stated that the Bharatiya Janata Party stands with the students and does not wish to see any student face difficulty, adding that the party supports constructive dialogue and solutions.
The Deputy Commissioner also addressed the proposed Andaman bandh called by certain groups, stating that the administration has not granted permission for such a bandh. She cautioned that if any strike or shutdown is conducted without written approval and leads to disruption of public transport, tourism activity, movement of travellers, or involves rallies and gatherings without permission, strict action will be taken in accordance with the law.
At the same time, she clarified that students remain free to express their views and protest peacefully within the framework of the law.
Those present indicated that the overall message conveyed at the meeting was that the decision regarding the deemed university has been taken after due consideration, that existing students’ interests will be protected, and that the public should avoid tension and misinformation while awaiting further policy clarity.
