Himachal Pradesh Assembly passes University Amendment Bill

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly has passed the State Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2026, via voice vote. The legislation aims to reform the recruitment process within state universities to ensure transparency and merit-based appointments. Under the new rules, universities will retain the authority to appoint professors and associate professors, while recruitment for all other positions will be managed through the Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (HPPSC) and the State Selection Commission.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu defended the bill, stating it is designed to prevent political interference and irregularities in appointments. However, the move faced significant opposition from BJP legislators and university teachers, who argued that the changes could undermine academic autonomy.

Separately, Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania noted that over 1,900 students from various districts participated in observing the 10-day legislative session. During the session, students interacted with the Speaker to learn about the parliamentary system, the role of the presiding officer, and the functioning of the democratic process in India.