The Haryana government has introduced the Haryana Private Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the state assembly, granting sweeping powers to dissolve university management bodies and appoint administrators in cases of serious violations. Tabled by Higher Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda, the legislation is expected to pass soon and directly targets institutions like Al Falah University in Faridabad, currently under investigation for alleged links to a white-collar terror module.

The amendment addresses gaps in existing laws by allowing government intervention for grave lapses, including threats to national security, sovereignty, public order, or misuse of premises for unlawful activities. An inquiry officer or committee of up to five members can be appointed, required to submit findings within 30 days, followed by a seven-day show-cause notice to the university.

If the response is unsatisfactory, the government may appoint an administrator for up to three years, effectively taking over operations. Additional provisions prohibit new student enrolments without explicit approval, enable cancellation of courses post-inquiry, and impose minimum penalties of Rs 10 lakh, with the inquiry committee wielding civil court powers.

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The bill mandates annual academic and administrative audits by the Higher Education Department to maintain standards in teaching, examinations, and research. Minister Dhanda emphasised the need for these measures to streamline oversight and ensure accountability in private higher education institutions.

This development follows intense scrutiny of Al Falah University over alleged facilitation of terror-related activities, prompting broader reforms to safeguard public interest and national security in the state's private university sector.

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