The Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) on July 26 criticised the Sikkim Private Universities (Establishment and Regulation) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, passed by the Sikkim Legislative Assembly during the Budget Session, saying the law raises serious concerns about accountability and the protection of students enrolled in private universities. The party’s Cheli Morcha (Women’s Wing) in-charge, Komal Chamling, made the remarks in a video statement and demanded clarity from the state government.
Chamling singled out a newly inserted Section 72A, which states that the state government “shall not be liable for degrees, diplomas, certificates, mark sheets or any other academic documents issued by private universities.” She said the clause, added barely a year after the original Act took effect, has created uncertainty over who is responsible for safeguarding students’ academic credentials.
“If the state government is not responsible for the validity of academic certificates issued by private universities, then who will ultimately protect the interests of students? The government owes the people of Sikkim a clear explanation,” Chamling said, questioning the logic of removing government liability for private university certificates.
The SDF also raised concerns about the expanded role given to the Independent Regulatory Commission, which the amendment empowers to grant Letters of Authorisation to private universities. Chamling asked whether the commission has sufficient powers and the necessary independence to regulate higher education effectively in the state.
She further sought specific details on the commission’s functioning, including how many private universities it has examined since its establishment and whether any action has been initiated against Sikkim International University. The party insisted such information is necessary to judge the commission’s effectiveness.
Chamling stressed that transparency and accountability are essential to maintain public confidence in higher education. “The future of students cannot be left in uncertainty. Transparency and accountability are essential to maintain public confidence in higher education. The SKM government must answer these legitimate questions and assure students that their academic qualifications will remain protected,” she said.
The SDF demanded that the state government provide greater clarity on the regulatory framework governing private higher education and urged authorities to reassure students that their academic credentials will remain secure.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/sikkim/story/sdf-questions-sikkim-private-universities-amendment-seeks-clarity-on-student-safeguards-1429947-2026-07-26?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-07-26 20:41:00
