The Karnataka government, led by Congress, is developing a state-specific education policy, distancing itself from the NEP 2020, with the aim of creating an inclusive and equitable education system.

At the conference, educationist Prof Dr VP argued that the NEP 2020 undermines the Right to Education Act and called for policies that promote universal education and eliminate caste, gender, and religious discrimination.

Former Vice-Chancellor of JSS University, Mysuru, LK Jawahar Nesan criticised the NEP 2020 for promoting a divisive, India-centric education that marginalises certain communities and stressed the need for rational and scientific thinking in education.

Akkai Padmashali, a member of the SEP Commission, emphasised the need for an education policy that upholds constitutional values, provides equal education, and combats discrimination based on caste, religion, and gender.

The All India Students' Association (AISA) also called for the rejection of the NEP, as well as other central policies like HEFA, CUET, and NTA, advocating for the empowerment of state universities and opposition to the establishment of private universities.

Speakers at the conference emphasised the importance of empowering state universities in Karnataka, rather than promoting private institutions, to ensure a more accessible and equitable education system.

A booklet titled "A Philosophical and Normative Framework for Education Policy Making: A Note for Wider Public Debate," authored by Niranjanaradhya, was released at the conference, providing a foundation for discussions on Karnataka's education policy.