The University Grants Commission (UGC), under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, has issued a public notice warning students, parents, and the general public about two institutions—Open International University for Alternative Medicines and National Board of Alternative Medicines—located at 60, Mela Chetty Street, Kuttalam – 609801. These institutions have been found offering degree courses/programmes in gross violation of the UGC Act, 1956
Key Violations by These Institutions
Illegal Use of the Term “University”:
As per Section 23 of the UGC Act, 1956, no institution other than one established by a Central, State, or Provincial Act is permitted to use the term “University” in its name. Both institutions have unlawfully associated themselves with the title “University.”Unauthorized Degree Offerings:
Under Section 22 of the UGC Act, 1956, only recognized universities and institutions deemed to be universities are authorized to confer or grant degrees. The Open International University for Alternative Medicines and the National Board of Alternative Medicines are neither recognized under Section 2(f) nor deemed universities under Section 3 of the UGC Act.Impact on Students:
Degrees or certificates obtained from these unrecognized institutions are invalid and will not be recognized for higher education, employment, or any other official purpose, jeopardizing the careers of students who enroll.
UGC’s Advisory to the Public
The UGC strongly cautions:
- Students and Parents: Do not take admission to these self-styled institutions as they are not authorized to award degrees.
- Employers: Verify the authenticity of degrees and certificates before considering them for employment or higher studies.
For an updated list of recognized universities and institutions, visit the UGC website: www.ugc.ac.in.
Legal Framework of the UGC Act, 1956
- Section 22: Only institutions established by law or deemed universities can grant degrees.
- Section 23: Unauthorized use of the term “University” is prohibited to prevent misleading claims.
Report Violations
If any institution or individual is found offering degrees in contravention of the UGC Act, it should be reported immediately to the UGC at:
- Phone: 011-23236288 / 23239337
- Email: secy.ugc@nic.in
Protect Your Future
Students are urged to exercise due diligence and verify the legitimacy of institutions before enrolling. Falling for unauthorized programs can result in financial loss and long-term academic and professional repercussions.
Fake University in Tamil Nadu Sealed After 12 Years of Operation
In a significant crackdown on fraudulent educational institutions, authorities in Tamil Nadu have sealed a fake university that had been operating for 12 years without proper accreditation. The institution, which falsely claimed to offer various degree programs, deceived numerous students over the years.
Background:
Establishment: The unrecognized university had been functioning since 2007, offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses without the necessary approvals from the University Grants Commission (UGC) or other regulatory bodies.
Deception: The institution misled students by presenting itself as a legitimate university, complete with fabricated affiliations and accreditation certificates.
Action Taken:
Investigation: Following complaints from affected students and parents, an investigation was launched, revealing the institution’s lack of authorization to confer degrees.
Closure: Authorities promptly sealed the premises, ceasing all operations and preventing further fraudulent activities.
Stay informed. Protect your education. Choose recognized institutions.
Impact on Students:
Invalid Degrees: Students who graduated from this fake university now face the challenge of holding invalid degrees, which are not recognized for employment or further education.
Legal Recourse: Affected students are advised to seek legal counsel to explore possible remedies and to report their cases to the UGC and other relevant authorities.
