UGC bars NALSAR from offering open and distance learning programmes

The University Grants Commission (UGC) recently barred NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad from offering programmes in Open and Distance Learning and Online (ODL) modes.

In a letter to Bar & Bench, the UGC revealed that NALSAR had submitted applications to offer postgraduate (PG) programmes under ODL modes twice, but were rejected both times. The programmes offered were in conflict with Regulation 2(z) of the UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020 (Regulation).

The Regulation defines 'prohibited programmes' and includes online and distance learning mode programmes in the discipline of law or its allied domains.

A proviso to the Regulation also states that if the concerned statutory or regulatory council permits any of the prohibited programmes in the modes stated, it can be considered by the Commission.

As per the UGC, NALSAR did not provide a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Bar Council of India (BCI) to offer programmes in the ODL modes.

Despite the rejection from the UGC, NALSAR advertised an admission notification offering PG programmes for the 2023-24 academic session on its website. A show-cause notice was issued subsequently to the University.

The matter was placed before the UGC's Complaint Redressal Committee, which recommended the ban on NALSAR's ODL programmes.

The UGC did not provide any clarification on how students who have enrolled in these ODL programmes can seek relief.

Additionally, the recommendation also stated that NALSAR could apply to offer ODL programmes post the debarment period. At the time of publishing this piece, no comment has been received from NALSAR.