Of course, this exemption comes with strings. How does one ensure “prevention of commercialisation” by these universities? Reputed foreign universities desirous of operating in India are assumed to be doing so out of altruistic motives. The Bill specifies that these universities shall invest any surplus revenue only for the growth and development of the educational institutions established in India. This implies that any surplus made cannot be repatriated. And then, how does one make sure that these universities are committed to staying in India? Easy. They have to bring in at least 51 per cent of the investment required.

The chapter on penalties extends the purview beyond foreign universities. It prescribes penalties for any person associated with an educational institution or an unrecognised foreign institution that offers admission, awards any degree, or solicits or levies fees etc. This implies that even Indian institutions may not award any diplomas without UGC approval. The position of various cultural centres offering courses in foreign languages, culture, etc, would also be under the scanner.

The Bill, in its current form, has faced criticism from across the spectrum. The Left has, of course, opposed this with the view that higher education should not be privatised, foreign institutions should not be permitted, and that the government should increase public investment in education in line with its commitments in the Common Minimum Programme.

But the Bill, liberals argue, is just another version of licence-raj, and will limit the entry of good foreign institutions, defeating the purpose of increasing the options for students. They say the current policy is elitist, as the rich travel abroad to get education that the poor cannot afford, and this Bill will not make any significant change in this situation.

... contd.