Contentious Clash Over Vice-Chancellor Appointments in Himachal Pradesh

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly saw heated debate as it passed a 2023 bill mandating the appointment of vice-chancellors at two agriculture universities based on the advice of the state government. The bill clashes with the original 1986 Act, causing significant political tension.

Despite the governor returning the bill with objections, the House reaffirmed it, while a proposed 2024 amendment bill was withdrawn. This has sparked a contentious debate over the autonomy of vice-chancellor appointments in the state.

The standoff has escalated to legal actions, with the Himachal High Court intervening to stay the Raj Bhawan's advertisement for the vice-chancellor posts, highlighting ongoing friction between the state government and the governor over academic leadership roles.

(With inputs from agencies.)