*SIO has submitted its concerns and recommendations on the proposed UGC draft regulations,* which dilute subject expertise, promote privatization, contractualize faculty positions, and erode academic autonomy. These changes threaten the integrity of publicly funded higher education institutions, making them vulnerable to corporate interests and political intervention. To safeguard academic excellence, transparency, and equitable opportunities, we urge the UGC to reconsider these provisions and uphold the foundational values of higher education in India.