Navaniti Prasad Singh, J.

1. State of Kerala alone is aggrieved by the judgment dated 21.12.2016 passed by the learned single Judge in W.P.(C) No.25782 of 2016 and analogous cases. These cases deal with the matter regarding affiliation of Arts and Science Colleges under different Universities in the State of Kerala. The Universities have not appealed against the judgment of the learned single Judge under appeals.

2. We have heard learned Additional Advocate General appearing for the State, learned standing counsel for the Universities and the learned counsel for the contesting respondents, who were the writ petitioners.

3. The facts and issues are simple. In challenge is G.O.(Rt) No. 178/2016/H.Edn. dated 22.08.2016 of the State Government whereby, it has resolved that no new colleges and courses would be allowed in the self financing sector in the higher education field in the State. We may mention that this State is proud of 100% literacy, but that is not carried to the collegiate level. There is dearth of educational institutions at the higher level with a large number of students moving to other neighboring States for higher education. Yet, such a decision is taken by th