Students and Leaders Protest Against Deemed University Proposal in Andaman
Port Blair, 25 February 2026: A large candle march organised by the Joint Action Forum (JAF) witnessed strong participation from students, parents, and members of various political and social organisations protesting against the proposed Deemed University system for colleges in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The march began from Flag Point and concluded at Tiranga Park, where a public meeting was held raising concerns over the future of higher education in the islands. Addressing the gathering, Rakesh Pal Govind announced his resignation as an ordinary member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), expressing dissatisfaction over the handling of the issue. He stated that elected representatives who fail to address public concerns lose their moral authority to remain in power. Govind alleged that the Deemed University proposal, which reportedly dates back to 2018, could weaken students’ access to quality education and further isolate island students. He also criticised recent inciden...