House passes pvt varsities bill to amend '20 act
The legislative assembly has passed the Goa Private Universities (Amendment) Bill by 23-6 votes amid strong opposition from several MLAs who raised concerns about the legislation's potential impact on educational standards.
The bill amends the 2020 act to allow private universities to operate through off-campus centres during their initial establishment phase. This provision is designed to expedite the setup of private universities in the state while their main campuses are being developed.
Several opposition MLAs voiced sharp criticism. Carlos Ferreira warned that 'the bill will allow fly-by-night operators to set shop in the state.'
Viresh Borkar questioned the legislation's benefits for local residents.
Vijai Sardesai alleged that the bill would 'facilitate the entry of education mafia to set mom and pop shops, which will only give (fake) degrees.' The CM defended the amendment as necessary to attract quality educational institutions to Goa.
Also, the legislative assembly passed the Goa (Recovery of Arrears of Tax, Interest, Penalty, Other Dues Through Settlement) (Amendment) Bill, providing a final opportunity for tax defaulters to clear dues.
The legislation targets dealers who missed the previous settlement deadline of March 7, 2024.
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