THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government's stand is that permission will be given to private universities in the state only if merit, reservation and social justice are ensured. At least 35% of seats in all courses must be given to government. Scholarship should be provided for bright but economically weaker students.

The applications of Ernakulam Rajagiri and Thiruvananthapuram Mar Ivanios are before the government. The Medical University of Karnataka has also expressed interest. As the NOC of the government is required to get the UGC approval, the interested institutions might agree to government's demand.

NOC will be given only after confirmation of reservation in OBC and Scheduled Castes and admission and also scholarship. A committee of top officials and academic experts will be step up to create policy on restrictions on private universities. The control committee will have a representative each from UGCs and the government.Universities are empowered to administer the syllabus, conduct examinations, announce results and award degrees.