Assam Govt Makes Security Clearance Mandatory to Set Up Private Medical Colleges

Establishing any private medical colleges, dental colleges and nursing colleges in Assam, will now require mandatory security clearance from the state government, said Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Chief Minister Sarma said that a bill will soon be introduced to enforce this new provision to ensure that the establishment of educational institutions in the state adheres to stringent security protocols.

Briefing media persons in Guwahati, CM Sarma said. “The Central Government requires that an Intelligence Bureau (IB) report be reviewed before approving the setting up new educational institutions. However, Assam has no similar legislative requirement that necessitates security clearances, such as an SB (State Bureau) report, for such institutions. Therefore, the process for establishing educational institutions in Assam is relatively straightforward, with fewer regulatory hurdles compared to other regions. This regulatory gap has prompted the Assam Cabinet to consider implementing new legislation to address this issue within the next two to three months.”

The Cabinet is deliberating on the introduction of a law that would require security clearances, including an SB report, for the establishment of educational institutions in the state. This proposed regulation aims to enhance scrutiny and ensure that new institutions align with the state’s security and educational standards, CM Sarma added.

CM Sarma also disclosed that two to three universities from Kerala are planning to establish campuses in Barak Valley and Barpeta district. This announcement has sparked discussions regarding the regulatory framework governing the approval of new educational institutions in Assam.

CM Sarma said that he has received a report from the State Bureau (SB) indicating concerns that these institutions should not have been granted approval for establishment.

Stating that Assam lacks specific laws or regulations that mandate background checks or security clearances for such proposals, he highlights the urgent need for legislative reform to ensure that new educational establishments meet comprehensive security and regulatory standards.

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