Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has raised strong objections to the Centre’s alleged attempts to take control of state universities under the guise of the University Grants Commission (UGC). He described the move as a “cultural invasion” and vowed to oppose it. Revanth Reddy also announced plans to discuss the issue with the Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh for a collective response.
The Chief Minister made these remarks during his visit to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University in Hyderabad, where he became the first Telangana CM in 32 years to visit the institution. As part of his visit, he unveiled a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and laid the foundation stones for three new university buildings.
Addressing a public gathering, Revanth Reddy accused the Centre of undermining the constitutional division of powers between the states and the Union. “Despite the Constitution clearly defining the roles of the Centre and the states, the current efforts by the Union government violate its spirit. If these actions continue, local bodies, municipalities, and district councils will be reduced to mere tax collection agencies,” he said.
Revanth also expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of universities and emphasized his government’s commitment to restoring their prestige. “Universities have suffered years of neglect. Upon assuming office, I prioritized the appointment of vice-chancellors, ensuring social justice by including leaders from marginalized communities. For instance, Osmania University, in its 100-year history, had never had a Dalit vice-chancellor until now,” he added.
The Chief Minister hinted at key reforms in the education sector, including raising the retirement age of professors to 65 and ensuring better utilization of experienced faculty. He also assured students of fee reimbursement for open university courses.
“We must rebuild our universities to preserve their dignity and provide quality education. Turning a blind eye to their decline would be an injustice to future generations,” Revanth Reddy stated.
The event was attended by Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari, Telangana State Council of Higher Education Chairman V. Balakishan Reddy, Vice-Chancellor Ghanta Chakrapani, and other senior officials and academicians.