Assembly okays Jharkhand University Bill after debate

Ranchi: The state assembly on Tuesday passed the Jharkhand State University Bill, 2026, after a discussion during which several MLAs proposed amendments and suggestions. Minister Sudivya Kumar tabled the bill in the House, stating that an earlier version introduced in August last year had been withdrawn.During the debate, BJP MLA Raj Sinha proposed an amendment seeking a provision for setting up placement agency offices on university campuses. Another MLA, Amit Yadav, suggested removing the chief minister’s role from decision-making provisions.The bill provides that the governor, along with the chief minister, will jointly select vice-chancellors of universities. At present, the governor—who also serves as chancellor—holds this authority independently.

Rejecting the suggestions, the minister said that joint decision-making by two constitutional authorities would be more beneficial for the state.Earlier, minister Yogendra Prasad informed the House that the govt is preparing to ensure drinking water supply to every household during the upcoming summer. He said orders have been issued to repair 1,44,906 hand pumps across the state.Responding to a question by MLA Hemlal Murmu, who highlighted the poor condition of hand pumps in the Santhal Pargana region and raised concerns about drought-prone areas, the minister acknowledged the issue.

Prasad admitted that many hand pumps, installed nearly a decade ago, are now facing reduced groundwater availability. He added that a plan is being prepared to provide alternative water supply in such areas.The session also witnessed protests by BJP MLAs over the alleged use of unparliamentary language by a member in the House on Monday. MLA Neera Yadav raised the issue, noting that school students often visit to observe proceedings and should not be exposed to inappropriate language.Speaker Rabindra Nath Mahto said the objectionable words had been expunged from the records. Parliamentary affairs minister Radha Krishana Kishore emphasised that decorum must be maintained by both ruling and opposition members, and expressed regret over the incident.Replying to a question by MLA Amit Kumar, minister Dipika Pandey said that out of 264 blocks in the state, block development officers (BDOs) are currently posted in 218. In the remaining blocks, circle officers have been given additional charge. She added that BDOs would be appointed in the remaining 46 blocks within the next 15 to 20 days.