SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Saturday passed the Jammu and Kashmir Private Universities Bill, 2026 (L.A. Bill No. 08 of 2026), enabling the establishment and incorporation of private universities in the Union Territory.
The Bill, moved by Minister for Education Sakeena Itoo, seeks “to provide for the establishment and incorporation of Private Universities in Jammu and Kashmir, and to regulate their functioning, management, and academic standards to ensure quality education and protect the interests of students.”
Speaking in the House, Education Minister Itoo said that the government had considered all issues and concerns related to the higher education sector before formulating the Bill. She emphasized that the legislation will pave the way for establishing private universities in the UT, boosting higher education and benefiting numerous students who previously had to leave Jammu and Kashmir for advanced studies.
During deliberations, legislators Mir Saifullah, Nizam-ud-din Bhat, Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, and Tanvir Sadiq moved amendments, which they later withdrew following assurances from the Minister. Another amendment moved by Balwant Singh Mankotia was rejected through a voice vote.
The Speaker then put the Bill to a voice vote, and it was passed, marking a significant step in expanding the higher education infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir.
