Supreme Court orders nationwide audit of private universities after Amity University harasses student for changing her name
Court directs Union government, States, UTs, and UGC to disclose establishment, regulation, and monitoring details of private universities
The Supreme Court has directed the Union government, all States and Union Territories, and the University Grants Commission (UGC) to disclose comprehensive information about the creation, regulation, and oversight of private universities across India. The Bench of Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and NV Anjaria emphasized the public interest in scrutinizing the statutory framework, governance, and benefits granted to these institutions.
This order arose from a petition filed by Ayesha Jain, a 23-year-old student who accused Amity University of harassment after it refused to update her name in university records despite submission of all legal documentation. Jain alleged discrimination and arbitrary treatment, which caused her to lose a year of studies.
The Supreme Court expanded the scope of the case to cover broader issues regarding the foundation and functioning of private universities, ordering detailed affidavits from governments explaining legal bases for establishment, financial or administrative benefits including land allotments, and governance structures.
The UGC is required to detail its regulatory jurisdiction and compliance monitoring mechanisms. Information about admissions, faculty recruitment, adherence to legal standards, and grievance redressal systems must also be filed.
The Court warned of serious consequences for any misrepresentation or withholding of information and mandated that affidavits be personally affirmed by the highest-ranking officials in the respective jurisdictions.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing on January 8, 2026.