Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 11: The Member of Parliament, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, has expressed serious concern over the growing unrest among the student community in the Islands following the decision of the Government/UT Administration to establish a Deemed-to-be University in the name of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Higher Education Institution.
In a letter addressed to the Lieutenant Governor, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Mr. Ray on 10.02.2026 informed that students, along with various stakeholders, have launched protests and sit-in demonstrations at JNRM College, Sri Vijayapuram, and at Mayabunder, demanding the establishment of a Central University instead of a Deemed-to-be University. The situation has created widespread anxiety among students, parents, academic institutions, and the general public.
The MP recalled that, in view of the long-standing demand of students, stakeholders, associations, unions and PRI representatives, he had earlier taken up the matter with the Prime Minister of India on 09.12.2025, seeking a review of the decision and urging the establishment of a Central University in the Islands. Subsequently, the Prime Minister directed the Ministry of Home Affairs to examine the issue, and the matter is presently under consideration before the Government and the UT Administration.
Mr. Ray further pointed out that the decision to establish a Deemed-to-be University has also been challenged before the High Court in WP No. 53 of 2026 (Vaishnavi Naidu & 3 Others vs. A&N Administration), which is currently pending adjudication.
In view of the prevailing circumstances, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray has urged the Lieutenant Governor to keep the process of establishing the Deemed-to-be University in abeyance until (i) a final decision is taken by the Government of India on his representation dated 09.12.2025 and the High Court delivers its final judgment in WP No. 53 of 2026.
The MP also cautioned that any further advancement of the process during the pendency of the matter before the Government and the High Court may not only be contrary to the principles of law and natural justice but may also aggravate the unrest among students and the public.
Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray has appealed for urgent intervention in the larger interest of students and the people of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, with a view to restoring peace and ensuring a fair and transparent decision on the future of higher education in the Islands.
