Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 10: Mr. D. Ayyappan, Chairman of the JNRM Alumni Association and a senior political figure in the islands, has expressed strong support for the ongoing student protests against the recent disaffiliation of Andaman and Nicobar colleges from Pondicherry University and their subsequent affiliation with a newly formed deemed university.
Speaking to media at the protest site, Mr. Ayyappan clarified that he attended the meeting not in his political capacity but as an alumnus concerned about the future of higher education in the islands. He stated that students from various institutions, including the Law College, JNRM and ANCOL, have been staging demonstrations over the past several days, opposing what they describe as an abrupt and ill-considered administrative decision.
According to Mr. Ayyappan, the colleges of Andaman and Nicobar Islands had been successfully affiliated with Pondicherry University since the 1988 academic session, and prior to that were linked with Punjab University. He noted that the transition to Pondicherry University had historically been made after due consideration and had served students well for decades by providing nationally recognized degrees and academic credibility.
He questioned the urgency and necessity behind the establishment of the deemed university and the sudden notification issued in 2024 transferring all island colleges under its jurisdiction. While acknowledging that the local administration may have acted on directions, he emphasized that the notification was issued by the Government of India and therefore the responsibility to review or reverse the decision also rests with the Centre.
Mr.Ayyappan raised concerns over the deemed university’s preparedness, alleging that it currently lacks adequate faculty strength, academic infrastructure and examination mechanisms. He warned that the shift could lead to increased fees, reduced recognition of degrees and administrative confusion regarding examinations, certifications and evaluations. He further remarked that, at present, the deemed university appears to be functioning from a single office room with limited staffing, which, in his view, does not inspire confidence among students and parents.
Calling for unity among student bodies, Mr. Ayyappan urged major student organizations such as SFI, ABVP and NSUI to come together and lead a structured, peaceful and large-scale movement rather than fragmented protests. He stressed that the issue goes beyond affiliation and touches the long-term academic and professional prospects of island students.
