UP assembly: Bill passed, Saharanpur State Univ to get deity Shakumbhari Devi’s name

UP deputy chief minister Dinesh Sharma says the decision has been taken in accordance with the sentiments of the general public which has unwavering reverence for Maa Shakumbhari Devi

The Uttar Pradesh assembly on Thursday passed the Uttar Pradesh State Universities (Amendment) Bill 2021 that provides for renaming the Saharanpur State University, Saharanpur as Maa Shakumbhari University, Saharanpur.

The Uttar Pradesh assembly, which was adjourned sine die on Thursday three days after the Monsoon session began, passed the Uttar Pradesh State Universities (Amendment) Bill 2021. (PTI Photo)

In the statement of objects and reasons for presenting the bill, deputy chief minister Dinesh Sharma said, “The ancient temple of Goddess Shakumbhari Devi is situated in Saharanpur district, which is one of the famous Shakti Peeths of India. The general public has an unwavering reverence for Maa Shakumbhari Devi. Dedicating the Saharanpur State University, Saharanpur, established by the state government to Maa Shakumbhari Devi, it was decided to name the said university after her name in accordance with the sentiments of the general public.”

The bill, when it becomes law, would replace the Uttar Pradesh State Universities (Amendment) Ordinance 2021 that governor Anandiben Patel promulgated on August 3, 2021.

The assembly also passed the Uttar Pradesh Private Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2021. This bill will replace the Uttar Pradesh Private Universities (Amendment) Ordinance, 2021, promulgated on April 12, 2021, to amend certain provisions to set up United University, Prayagraj, FS University, Shikohabad (Firozabad) and Maha Yogi Gorakhnath University, Uttar Pradesh.