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 incidents involving police personnel and urged authorities to review disciplinary actions and ensure accountability.
He stated that the movement would continue through peaceful and constitutional means, including legal action, public awareness campaigns, and delegations to New Delhi to raise the matter before national leaders.
Other speakers at the gathering questioned the need for a Deemed University system when alternatives such as a Central University could better serve the educational interests of students in the islands.
Speakers also urged the Member of Parliament to raise the issue in Parliament and stressed the need for responsive governance and accessible grievance mechanisms at the local level.
Leaders appealed to students to continue peaceful and disciplined participation, warning that failure to address the issue could lead to a larger island-wide movement involving schools and communities.
The protest concluded peacefully, with participants reiterating their demand for withdrawal of the proposed Deemed University move and protection of students’ educational rights.
Originally published in Dweep Tulika, Volume VIII, Issue No. 12, dated 20 March 2026.
