3 Manipur Universities among 54 declared defaulters by UGC

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has declared 54 state private universities across India, including three from Manipur, as defaulters for failing to comply with mandatory requirements under Section 13 of the UGC Act, 1956. The move has sparked concern over transparency, accountability, and potential risks to students’ academic credentials.
The Manipur universities named in the list are Asian International University, Ghari Awang Leikai, Imphal West; Bir Tikendrajit University, South View Canchipur, Imphal West; and Manipur International University, MIU Palace, Ghari, Airport Road, Imphal. These institutions reportedly failed to submit required information and make public disclosures on their official websites despite repeated UGC reminders via emails and online meetings.
According to the UGC’s Guidelines on Public Self-Disclosure by Higher Education Institutions, 2024, all universities must maintain a fully functional website with easily accessible information on academic programmes, faculty, governance, and financials. The failure to comply not only contravenes the law but also raises questions about the credibility of these institutions, leaving students uncertain about the validity of degrees and academic records.
Officials warned that continued non-compliance could trigger regulatory action, including inspection, fines, or even derecognition, which may have serious implications for current and prospective students. The UGC has urged these universities to immediately submit detailed information in the prescribed format and ensure transparency, or risk stringent measures under the UGC Act.
Education experts say such lapses undermine trust in private higher education and expose students to significant career and legal risks, highlighting the urgent need for strict enforcement in the sector.