University Bill could not be passed today; debate remains inconclusive

Bhubaneswar, October 3: The Odisha University (Amendment) Bill could not be passed in the state assembly today as the debate on the contentious legislation remained inconclusive. Opposition BJP and Congress legislators opposed the Bill arguing that it would destroy the University autonomy. The ruling BJD MLAs, on the other hand, argued that the legislation was aimed at improvement in the working of the state universities. The Bill, which was to replace the Odisha University (Amendment )Ordinance promulgated by the Governor on September 4, was scheduled to get the nod of the House today. Speaker Dr Surjya Narayan Patro adjourned the proceeding till tomorrow 10.30 am as the discussion on the University Bill remained inclusive at the time of closing of today's sitting. The Bill is to provide for one and only law for all the state universities across Odisha. All the public universities of the state will be governed by one law and the Ravenshaw University Act, 2005 will be repealed. Similarly, all the unitary universities like Khallikote University and GM University will come under one umbrella. Under the new law, the tenure of the vice chancellors has been increased from 3 years to 4 years and their retirement age from 65 years to 67 years. The recruitment of university teachers will be entrusted to Odissa Public Service Commission (OPSC).