The Supreme Court of India has initiated a significant nationwide audit of all private, deemed, and non-government universities. This sweeping directive mandates that central and state governments, along with the University Grants Commission (UGC), must submit comprehensive details on the establishment, regulation, and financial benefits provided to these higher education institutions. The order stems from a petition filed by a student, Ayesha Jain, who alleged a name-change dispute with Amity University, Noida. Her case brought to light broader issues concerning administrative transparency and grievance redressal within the higher education sector. The audit will scrutinize foundational mandates, governance structures, student and faculty operations, and financial dealings to ensure adherence to the ‘no-profit, no-loss’ principle. The UGC is held directly accountable for regulatory enforcement, with its Chairman required to personally submit an affidavit confirming the existence of effective grievance resolution systems for students and staff.
