National University Audit Ordered After Student’s Complaint

A significant judicial step has been taken by the Supreme Court of India, which has mandated a nationwide audit of all private and deemed universities. This directive compels the Central Government, State Governments, Union Territories, and the UGC to disclose critical information about the establishment, regulation, and benefits bestowed upon these institutions. The catalyst for this order was a petition filed by student Ayesha Jain, who experienced difficulties with Amity University regarding the official recognition of her name change. Her experience underscored a broader concern about administrative responsiveness and transparency in higher education. The audit will cover the foundational basis of each university, its governance hierarchy, student and faculty policies, and financial conduct, with a particular emphasis on verifying the ‘no-profit, no-loss’ operations. The UGC is tasked with demonstrating its effectiveness in regulatory oversight and ensuring timely resolution of student and staff grievances.