A Delhi University committee investigating alleged financial irregularities in 12 Delhi government-funded colleges has cleared the colleges of any misappropriation. The panel, formed after Education Minister Atishi raised concerns last December, concluded that the colleges should retain their affiliation with the university. In a report presented to the university’s Executive Council (EC), the committee stated that the colleges are an integral part of Delhi University and their recognition cannot be revoked based on the allegations. The report also recommended that the Education Minister’s letter calling for de-affiliation be withdrawn. The EC, the university’s highest decision-making body, accepted the committee’s findings. The report highlighted that there was no evidence of unauthorized fund appropriation, arbitrary payments for cleanliness and security, or financial irregularities in the colleges. While some teachers’ groups and committee members expressed dissent, the EC ultimately approved the report.
In addition to the investigation findings, the EC approved a range of proposals, including funding for three construction projects under the Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA). These projects include an academic building at Surajmal Vihar, a college/academic building at Roshanpura Najafgarh, and an academic building in Dwarka. The EC also approved guidelines for student passing and promotion norms under the National Education Policy (NEP) UGCF-2022. The new guidelines require students to obtain at least 28 credits out of the total for both semesters to be promoted to the next year. Students participating in sports and extracurricular activities may be exempt from this requirement with prior approval.
Furthermore, the EC gave its approval for the introduction of new courses starting in the academic year 2024-25. These include an M.Tech. in Computer Science with 30 seats and a BA (Hons) in Russian language. Several other proposals were rejected due to objections from EC members, including a proposal allowing donors to name or rename university properties through contributions. Dissent notes were also submitted regarding the alleged substandard study material from the School of Open Learning and an order to charge retired employees for health services.
In a separate statement, Vice Chancellor Yogesh Singh provided updates on the admission process for the 2024-25 academic year. He stated that admission for postgraduate courses, B.Tech, and five-year BA LLB and BBA LLB programs is ongoing. Three rounds of admissions have been completed for all three programs, with over 90% of postgraduate seats and 95% of the integrated law program seats filled. The spot round admission process is currently underway for remaining seats.
