Kerala Opposition Leader’s Concerns
Kerala Opposition Leader Pinarayi Vijayan has demanded the immediate withdrawal of a state government circular allowing autonomous aided and self-financing colleges to increase seats without prior approval. This announcement was made on November 8, 2026.
Allegations of Commercialization
Vijayan alleges that the government’s decision was taken under pressure from private college managements and would lead to the commercialization of education. He contends that the move undermines existing regulatory mechanisms.
Details of the Circular
According to Vijayan, a September 11 circular issued by the Higher Education Department had previously mandated prior government approval for introducing new courses and increasing seats in government, aided, and autonomous colleges. The current circular relaxes these norms.
Concerns Regarding Inspections and Admissions
Vijayan expressed concern that the revised rules would eliminate the requirement for annual inspections and allow colleges to inform the government about seat increases only after the admission process is completed. He claims this constitutes a “clear conspiracy to sell seats by taking bribes” and subverting merit and reservation policies.
Reference to Supreme Court Assurance
The former Chief Minister highlighted that the government’s actions contradict assurances previously given to the Supreme Court regarding self-financing courses in aided colleges.
Demand for Legal Inquiry
Vijayan has called for a comprehensive legal inquiry into the alleged dilution of the September 11 circular’s provisions, attributing it to pressure from college managements. He believes the government is protecting the interests of these managements.
Source: The Hindu. Featured image credit: The Hindu.
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