THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, Jan 28: The Jharkhand High Court has placed a stay on the Private Universities Act, 2024, implemented by the state government. The decision will remain in effect until further notice.
The court’s order followed a petition filed by Sarla Birla University and Radha Govind University. It also directed the state government to file a response to the matter.
The Jharkhand Private Universities Act, 2024, is a law aimed at regulating the establishment and operation of private universities in the state. The Act was officially notified by the Jharkhand government on December 11, 2024.
Senior lawyer Ajit Kumar, representing the two universities, argued that these institutions were established under separate Acts passed by the State Assembly. “These Acts include provisions for running the universities, such as appointing the chancellor, visitor, vice-chancellor, and other officers, as well as managing financial matters,” Kumar said.
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He further contended that the new Act introduces a single law governing all private universities in Jharkhand, which conflicts with several Supreme Court rulings. Kumar emphasized that these universities are self-financed, and the new Act disrupts their autonomy.
While acknowledging the state’s authority to regulate the quality of education, Kumar argued that the management of private universities falls outside its purview. “This Act is unlawful,” he concluded.
Jharkhand currently has 16 private universities, including prominent ones such as Sarla Birla University, Usha Martin University, ICFAI University, and Amity University.
Requirements for Establishing a Private University in Jharkhand
- Land:
- At least 5 acres within a municipal corporation area.
- At least 15 acres outside a municipal corporation area.
- The land must be leased for a minimum of 30 years and cannot be used for any other purpose.
- Funds:
- A minimum fund of ₹10 crore for land within municipal areas.
- A minimum fund of ₹7 crore for land outside municipal areas.
- Infrastructure:
- The university must construct facilities such as a library, lecture halls, an auditorium, a student resource centre, sports facilities, and laboratories.
