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The Supreme Court has directed private universities across the country to provide detailed financial and administrative information as part of a wider examination of how these institutions are established, regulated and operated.
A bench of Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Justice N.V. Anjaria issued the directions on September 17, 2026. The proceedings, which began with a student's grievance involving a private university in Noida, were subsequently expanded to examine private universities more broadly in the larger public interest.
Five Years of Financial Records Sought
The Court has asked private universities to submit audited financial records for the previous five years. The information must include funds generated and utilised, payments made to people not directly involved in educational functions, surplus funds and investments made from those funds.
The Court clarified that private universities can maintain a reasonable financial cushion for smooth functioning and suitable compensation for teaching and non-teaching staff. However, their resources should remain connected to their educational purpose.
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Fee Structure and Admissions Under Scrutiny
Universities will also have to provide details of fees collected from students, both at admission and during the course. Additional collections, including development funds and charges for special events, must also be disclosed.
The Court has sought details of the admission procedure followed for every course. Universities must also identify officials responsible for admissions, setting question papers, conducting examinations, evaluating answer sheets and handling funds.
Government Benefits and Faculty Details
Private universities have been asked to disclose benefits received from the Central and State governments, including land allotments, legal relaxations and other privileges or concessions.
The Court has also sought information on the recruitment and remuneration of teaching and non-teaching staff. Details of classes allotted to teachers, classes actually conducted and alternative arrangements for missed classes have also been sought for the specified period.
States Given Six Weeks to Submit Information
The Supreme Court has directed the Union government, States and Union Territories to collect the required information from universities and colleges and submit affidavits through their respective Chief Secretaries within six weeks of the September 17 order.
The Court has also sought details of grievance redressal mechanisms and inspections conducted by regulatory and affiliating bodies. The matter is scheduled to be heard next on November 19, 2026.
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