New Law for Delhi Private Universities: 25% Seats Reserved for Students

The Delhi Cabinet approved the Delhi Private University Bill on Friday. The proposed legislation includes a provision to reserve 25 percent of seats in every course for students from Delhi.

Delhi Private University Bill: The path has been cleared for a distinct legal framework governing the establishment and operation of private universities in Delhi. The Delhi Cabinet approved the Delhi Private University Bill on Friday. The proposed law mandates the reservation of 25 percent of seats in every course for Delhi students.

Additionally, there is a proposal to offer fee concessions to Delhi students based on a “merit-cum-means” criterion. According to the government, the bill aims to expand higher education opportunities within Delhi and reduce the need for students to travel to other states or abroad for quality education. However, the bill must undergo the legislative process in the Legislative Assembly before it can be enacted.

25% of Seats in Every Course Reserved for Delhi Students

Under the proposed law, 25 percent of seats in every course offered by private universities will be reserved for students from Delhi. Admissions to these seats will be conducted in accordance with the Delhi government’s existing reservation policy. Through this provision, the government intends to ensure that local students also gain access to higher education opportunities at private universities established in Delhi.

Fee Concessions Also Included

The bill also proposes a “merit-cum-means” scholarship scheme for Delhi students. Under this, a segment of students from Delhi will receive fee relief at varying levels. The proposal stipulates that 5 percent of Delhi students will receive a full fee waiver, 10 percent will be granted a 50 percent fee waiver, and another 10 percent will receive a 25 percent fee concession.

Private Universities to Operate Under Government Oversight

The proposed bill empowers the Delhi government to establish private universities through official notifications. However, these institutions will be required to comply with the regulations set by the UGC and relevant statutory regulatory bodies. A “unitary model” has been proposed for these universities. This means the university will operate solely through its own campus and will not be permitted to run affiliated colleges. However, additional campuses, regional centers, and study centers may be established within Delhi. Appointments of faculty and academic staff must also adhere to standards prescribed by the UGC.

Requirement of 30-Year Land Tenure for Establishing the University

The bill proposes stringent regulations for the bodies establishing private universities. The sponsoring body must possess ownership or leasehold rights over the requisite land for a minimum period of 30 years. Furthermore, the institution is required to provide adequate academic infrastructure, including classrooms, laboratories, libraries, digital resources, and essential student amenities.

Higher Education Minister to Serve as University Visitor

The proposed framework designates Delhi’s Higher Education Minister as the ‘Visitor’ for every private university. The Visitor will have the authority to seek information from the university, conduct inspections, and issue directives in the event of any violation of legal regulations. If necessary, inquiries into the university’s administrative, academic, and financial affairs may also be ordered. The university’s administrative structure will include positions such as Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, Controller of Finance, and Controller of Examinations. Bodies like the Academic Council and the Board of Management will oversee academic and administrative decision-making.