Archive · 26 Jul 2026
SDF Questions Sikkim Private Universities Amendment Bill
The Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) has questioned a recent amendment to the Sikkim Private Universities Act.
The amendment, which adds Section 72A, states that the state government is not responsible for the validity of academic certificates issued by private universities.
The SDF believes this raises serious concerns about accountability and the protection of students.
They also questioned the role and independence of the Independent Regulatory Commission in regulating these universities.
The SDF demands greater transparency and accountability to ensure the future of students is not left in uncertainty.
The SDF criticized the Sikkim Private Universities (Establishment and Regulation) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, particularly Section 72A.
Section 72A states that the state government is not liable for academic certificates issued by private universities.
The SDF questioned the enhanced role of the Independent Regulatory Commission in granting Letters of Authorisation to private universities.
The SDF demanded greater transparency and accountability in the regulatory framework governing higher education in Sikkim.
The SDF expressed concerns over the validity of certificates issued by private universities and the future of students.
- Who
- Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) and the Sikkim Government (SKM)
- What
- Amendment to the Sikkim Private Universities Act raising concerns over accountability and student protection
- When
- July 26, 2026
- Where
- Gangtok, Sikkim
- Why
- To address concerns over the validity of academic certificates and the role of the Independent Regulatory Commission
Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF)
Sikkim Government (SKM)
Accountability for Academic Certificates
Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF)
The government should be responsible for the validity of academic certificates issued by private universities to protect student interests.
Sikkim Government (SKM)
The government is not liable for degrees, diplomas, certificates, mark sheets, and other academic documents issued by private universities.
Role of the Independent Regulatory Commission
Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF)
The commission may not have adequate powers and independence to effectively regulate private universities.
Sikkim Government (SKM)
The commission has been granted an enhanced role in granting Letters of Authorisation to private universities.
- Bill Name
- Sikkim Private Universities (Establishment and Regulation) (Amendment) Bill, 2026
- Section in Question
- Section 72A
- Key Critic
- Komal Chamling, SDF Cheli Morcha (Women’s Wing) in-charge
- Main Concern
- Accountability and protection of students enrolled in private universities
- Regulatory Body
- Independent Regulatory Commission