The Haryana state government has significantly increased its control over private universities. The Haryana Private Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2025, passed in the assembly, allows the state to intervene, administer, and even dissolve private educational institutions for serious lapses, including those related to national security.
The new law modifies the Haryana Private Universities Act, 2006. It introduces a detailed legal framework for government action. This framework applies to severe administrative failures, academic irregularities, or national security violations.
Background and Rationale
The amendment follows the Al Falah University case. The Faridabad-based private university was allegedly involved in planning the Delhi Red Fort blast in early November. While the Bill does not name Al Falah, its new provisions target “any grave lapse” impacting “national security, sovereignty and integrity of India, public security, law and order.”
State government officials stated the amendment addresses gaps in the 2006 law. The previous law allowed inspections but lacked clear procedures for university dissolution or administrator appointment. Higher Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda introduced the Bill, calling it necessary to “streamline procedures” and protect public interest. He confirmed the law targets exceptional situations, not routine academic interference.
The government also reviewed the original law. It found loopholes allowing some private universities to introduce new courses, increase student intake, or change course names without explicit state approval. The amendment closes these loopholes.
Phased Dissolution and Administration
A key addition is Section 44B, which outlines the step-by-step process for dissolving a private university. Section 46 defines “grave lapses” that trigger state control and potential dissolution.
If the state government finds a university has committed serious violations, such as endangering national security or allowing anti-national activities, it can dissolve the university’s governing bodies. An administrator will then take over. This administrator assumes all powers of the university’s governing body and management. They manage academic affairs, finances, and assets under state supervision.
The law prioritizes student protection during dissolution. Section 44B requires the administrator to ensure enrolled students complete their studies and receive degrees. The university operates until the final batch of students graduates. After student completion, the university officially closes, and assets return to the sponsoring body.
Control Over Courses and Admissions
The amendment grants the government greater authority over new courses and student admissions. Private universities now require explicit state government permission before admitting students to any new course for the first time. The previous provision, which sometimes treated non-response as approval, is removed.
The government can also cancel existing courses. This power applies if an inquiry finds a university mismanaging academic or administrative work. This cancellation can affect current and future admissions.
Penalties for Violations
The amended law introduces stricter penalties. Private universities face fines from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 1 crore . They may also see admissions suspended for specific faculties. In severe cases, universities face dissolution.
If an institution fails to take corrective measures within 30 days of a penalty, the government can proceed with dissolution without further notice.
Opposition Concerns
Opposition legislators, including Raghubir Singh Kadyan, raised concerns during assembly debates. They warned the amendment grants excessive powers to the state. They argued it could undermine private university autonomy. Some members also worried about appointing administrators without clear academic qualifications, potentially leading to bureaucratic control.
Minister Dhanda rejected these concerns. He stated powers would be used only in “exceptional circumstances.” He emphasized the law’s necessity to safeguard students, public interest, and national security. He also assured academic continuity for students.
The Bill also proposes establishing a University of Design, Innovation and Technology in Gurugram.