Tripura Higher Education Minister Kishor Barman confirms irregularities in Tripura University are under observation, with updates sent to the Union Ministry. He announces a new women’s college for Nalchar, upgrades for TIT and Women’s College Agartala, and addresses admission controversies at Ram Thakur College while ensuring seat availability statewide.
Tripura’s Higher Education Minister Kishor Barman on Sunday confirmed that allegations of irregularities and corrupt practices in Tripura University (TU) are under active observation by the state’s Higher Education Department. He added that the Union Ministry of Education is being regularly updated on the developments and reports related to the matter.
Speaking to a local cable TV channel in Agartala, Minister Barman clarified that while the state government does not have direct authority over the administrative decisions of Tripura University, it is not remaining passive.
“We don’t have any direct say over the administrative decisions of the Tripura University, but that doesn’t mean we are sitting idle. Whatever is possible within our limited capacity is being done, and the Union Ministry of Education is being informed about the mismanagements coming to our notice,” the Minister said.
His remarks come amid a series of allegations and media reports highlighting possible administrative lapses and corruption within the university. The state’s monitoring, in coordination with central authorities, is aimed at ensuring accountability and improving the institution’s functioning.
New All-Women College for Nalchar
In a positive development for higher education in the state, Minister Barman announced that an all-women college would soon be set up in his constituency, Nalchar. He said that Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has already made the official announcement regarding the new institution.
The minister also revealed plans to upgrade existing institutions to university status. “Apart from the new women’s college, the Tripura Institute of Technology (TIT) and Women’s College Agartala shall be upgraded to full-fledged universities. The process of upgrading these institutions is already underway and will be completed soon,” Barman stated.
Addressing Admission Controversies
When questioned about the recent controversies surrounding admissions at Ram Thakur College, Minister Barman reassured the public that there are more than enough seats available across the state’s colleges to accommodate all eligible students.
“We have around 33,000 seats in colleges across the state, while only about 24,000 students passed the Higher Secondary examinations this year. Students may not always get admission to the college of their choice due to the merit-based admission system, but they will certainly get the opportunity to pursue higher education,” he explained.
Barman acknowledged that institutions like Ram Thakur College are in higher demand among students, but he made it clear that admission rules cannot be bypassed for specific groups.
“Some colleges, including Ram Thakur College, are more popular among students, but the admission procedure can’t be violated to pacify a section of students. The merit-based system ensures fairness for all applicants,” he added.
Balancing Oversight and Autonomy
The Minister’s statements highlight the delicate balance between institutional autonomy and governmental oversight in higher education. While universities enjoy significant independence in administration, the state’s Higher Education Department, along with the Union Ministry of Education, plays a critical role in ensuring transparency, fairness, and the efficient functioning of educational institutions.
Barman’s assurance of regular updates to the central ministry suggests that the matter is being treated seriously at both state and national levels. The proposed expansion of higher education infrastructure, including the creation of a women’s college and upgrading existing colleges to university status, also reflects the government’s focus on increasing accessibility and opportunities for students across Tripura.
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As monitoring of Tripura University continues, stakeholders from the student community to faculty and policymakers will be closely watching the steps taken to address the alleged irregularities and ensure that the state’s academic institutions remain credible, fair, and conducive to learning.
