New Delhi: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has invalidated Ph.D. degrees awarded by OPJS University (Churu), Sunrise University (Alwar), and Singhania University (Jhunjhunu), citing severe violations of academic standards. In a decisive move to uphold the integrity of higher education, the UGC has barred these institutions from enrolling new Ph.D. students for the next five years (2025-2030).
This crackdown follows a comprehensive investigation by a UGC-appointed committee, which found these universities guilty of compromising Ph.D. regulations. The UGC’s Public Notice issued today warns students against pursuing Ph.D. programs at these institutions, as the degrees will not be recognized for higher education or employment.
UGC Acts to Protect Academic Standards
According to UGC Chairman M. Jagadesh Kumar, the decision aims to safeguard the global reputation of Indian higher education. “Universities must maintain the highest standards in Ph.D. programs. Institutions violating these norms will face strict action,” he emphasized.
The UGC revealed that these universities failed to comply with regulations despite being given multiple opportunities to justify their practices. Their unsatisfactory responses led to the current penalties, including a complete halt to Ph.D. admissions.
Repeat Offender: OPJS University
This is not the first time OPJS University has faced such action. In December 2023, the UGC debarred the university from enrolling Ph.D. students for similar violations. Additionally, the Rajasthan government prohibited OPJS University from taking admissions for the 2024-25 academic year.
Complaints of “Degree Selling” Spark Investigation
The issue gained national attention when Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar informed the Rajya Sabha about complaints against several private universities for allegedly selling fake Ph.D. degrees. OPJS and Singhania universities were among ten institutions flagged in this response, prompting further scrutiny.
Ph.D. Degrees Declared Invalid
The UGC clarified that all Ph.D. degrees awarded by OPJS, Sunrise, and Singhania universities are invalid and unrecognized. Students enrolled in these programs are advised to seek alternative options for legitimate qualifications.
Ensuring Accountability in Higher Education
A UGC standing committee, tasked with monitoring Ph.D. standards, uncovered significant lapses in these universities’ adherence to regulations. Despite being given opportunities to rectify these issues, their continued non-compliance left no choice but to enforce strict penalties.
Actionable Warning for Students
Students are urged to exercise caution when selecting universities for Ph.D. programs. The UGC is intensifying its scrutiny of other institutions to identify and penalize any further violations, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining academic excellence in India.
This landmark decision serves as a warning to all educational institutions that any compromise on quality or integrity will not be tolerated. The UGC’s actions underscore its resolve to protect the sanctity of academic qualifications in the country.
