The University Grants Commission (UGC), under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, has issued a public notice to alert students, parents, and stakeholders about the proliferation of fake universities across the country. These self-styled institutions are using the term “university” in violation of the UGC Act, 1956, and are conferring fake degrees, putting the careers of students at risk.
Key Provisions of the UGC Act, 1956
Definition of University:
As per Section 2(f) of the UGC Act, a university is defined as an institution established by a Central Act, State Act, Provincial Act, or an institution deemed to be a university under Section 3.Awarding Degrees:
According to Section 22, only recognized universities and institutions can confer or grant degrees. Unauthorized institutions conferring degrees are operating illegally.Prohibition of the Word “University”:
Section 23 prohibits any institution, not established by law, from using the word “university” in its name.
State-Wise List of Fake Universities
Delhi
- Commercial University Ltd., Daryaganj
- United Nations University
- Vocational University
- ADR-Centric Juridical University
- Indian Institution of Science and Engineering
- Viswakarma Open University for Self-employment
- Adhyatmik Vishwavidyalaya (Spiritual University)
- All India Institute of Public & Physical Health Sciences
Karnataka
- Badaganvi Sarkar World Open University Education Society, Gokak
Kerala
- St. John’s University, Kishanattam
Maharashtra
- Raja Arabic University, Nagpur
West Bengal
- Indian Institute of Alternative Medicine, Kolkata
- Institute of Alternative Medicine and Research, Kolkata
Uttar Pradesh
- Gandhi Hindi Vidyapith, Prayag, Allahabad
- National University of Electro Complex Homeopathy, Kanpur
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose University (Open University), Aligarh
- Bhartiya Shiksha Parishad, Lucknow
Puducherry
- Sree Bodhi Academy of Higher Education
Andhra Pradesh
- Christ New Testament Deemed University, Guntur
- Bible Open University of India, Visakhapatnam
UGC’s Actions Against Fake Universities
Legal Action:
Under Section 24, the UGC is empowered to take strict legal action, including imposing fines, against fake universities operating in violation of the UGC Act.Compliance Reports:
Institutions listed as fake universities have been directed to submit compliance reports within 15 days, failing which legal proceedings will be initiated.Awareness Campaigns:
The UGC is raising awareness through public notices, press releases, and updates on its official website.
Advice to Students and Stakeholders
- Verify Before Admission: Always check the recognition status of institutions on the official UGC website: www.ugc.ac.in.
- Report Fake Institutions: If you come across any fake university, report it immediately via email at secy.ugc@nic.in.
Impact of Fake Degrees
Degrees from unrecognized institutions are invalid for higher education, employment, or official recognition. Enrolling in these institutions can result in financial and academic loss.
Note: While the UGC has identified and listed several fake universities, it is important to recognize that the problem extends beyond these institutions. Numerous private universities, even those operating under the umbrella of UGC recognition, are reportedly engaging in the sale of illegal and invalid degrees. These activities undermine the credibility of India's higher education system and violate legal provisions. Such degrees, though issued by UGC-recognized entities, are still fraudulent if they do not adhere to regulatory guidelines or if the programs themselves are not approved. These degrees cannot withstand legal scrutiny, jeopardizing the futures of unsuspecting students. The UGC and relevant authorities must take strict action against these practices, ensuring transparency and accountability across all recognized institutions. Students are strongly advised to verify the legitimacy of both the university and its specific programs before enrollment.
