Central Information Commission
Naresh Kadyan vs University Grants Commission on 16 April, 2025
के ीय सूचना आयोग
Central Information Commission
बाबा गं गनाथ माग,मुिनरका
Baba Gangnath Marg, Munirka
नई िद ी, New Delhi - 110067
िशकायत सं ा / Complaint No. (As per Annexure)
...िशकायतकता/Complainant
Naresh Kadyan
VERSUS
बनाम
CPIO:
University Grants Commission, ... ितवादीगण /Respondents
New Delhi
Relevant dates emerging from the complaint:
Sl. Complaint Date of Date of Date of Date of Date of
No. No. RTI CPIO's First FAA's Complaint
Application Reply Appeal Order
1. 651526 25.08.2024 20.09.2024 Nil Not on Nil
record
2. 649621 24.08.2024 18.10.2024 Nil Not on Nil
record
3. 648933 24.08.2024 20.09.2024 Nil Not on Nil
record
4. 648334 29.08.2024 20.09.2024 Nil Not on Nil
record
5. 634273 25.05.2024 04.06.2024 04.06.2024 07.06.2024 Nil
6. 624317 21.03.2024 23.04.2024 Nil Not on Nil
record
7. 619294 11.11.2023 Not on 29.12.2023 15.01.2024
Nil
record
Note - The above-mentioned complaints have been clubbed together for decision as
these are based on similar RTI Applications.
Date of Hearing: 09.04.2025
Date of Decision: 16.04.2025
Page 1 of 13
CORAM:
Hon'ble Commissioner
_ANANDI RAMALINGAM
ORDER
Complaint No. CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/651526
1. The Complainant filed an RTI application dated 25.08.2024 seeking information on the following points:
Supply complete details and information, related to various complaints with UGC, and all Enforcement agencies, proved no coordination among themselves, to prevent crime and fraud, cybercrime as well, related to
1) World Peace of United Nations University /
2) Commonwealth Vocational University /
3) California Public University /
4) National Virtual University /
5) Socrates Social Research University /
6) Thames International University/
7) Laughter Yoga University.
Supply present status of all complaints and action taken reports at UGC level, with complete details of FIR lodged by UGC, for the violation as stated in my complaints, even UGC circulars, to boost community policing as scouting with without gain. 1.1. The CPIO replied vide letter dated 20.09.2024 and the same is reproduced as under:-
You are informed that as per record the World Peace of United Nations University is not recognized by UGC under Section 2(f) or Section 3 of UGC Act, 1956. However, the matter under process of UGC.
1.2. Dissatisfied with the response received from the CPIO, the Complainant filed a First Appeal dated Nil alleging that the information provided was incomplete, false and misleading, which was not adjudicated by the Fist Appellate Authority.Page 2 of 13
1.3. Aggrieved with the non-receipt of FAA's order, the Complainant approached the Commission with the instant Complaint dated Nil.
Complaint No. CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/649621
2. The Complainant filed an RTI application dated 24.08.2024 seeking information on the following points:
As per Section 2 and 3 of UGC Act, the above said claims are unconstitutional, illegal and cheating - fraud for gain and profit, complaint has been sent to UGC:
1) Supply complete details and provide copies of action taken on complaints received against Laughter Yoga University.
2) Supply all copies of affiliation, certificates, degree, awards, given by the Laughter Yoga University, 2010 onwards till date.
3) Supply bank details, people cheated, criminal proceedings against Laughter Yoga University.
4) Present status of Laughter Yoga University and courses offered, and completed, along with Alumni and complete list.
2.1. The CPIO replied vide letter dated 18.10.2024 and the same is reproduced as under:-
The name of Laughter Yoga University, Bangalore, is not appearing in the list of universities established as per Section 2(f) of UGC Act, 1956, as maintained by the UGC.
2.2. Dissatisfied with the response received from the CPIO, the Complainant filed a First Appeal dated Nil alleging that the information provided was incomplete, false and misleading, which was not adjudicated by the Fist Appellate Authority.
2.3. Aggrieved with the non-receipt of FAA's order, the Complainant approached the Commission with the instant Complaint dated Nil.Page 3 of 13
Complaint No. CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/648933
3. The Complainant filed an RTI application dated 24.08.2024 seeking information on the following points:
World Peace of United Nations University, unrecognized and unconstitutional establishment, run and managed by a group, under Tapan Kumar Rautaray and his wife Mrs. Ritanjali Rautaray and their close associate Anjani Kumar, UGC issued legal notice to World Peace of United Nations University.
1) Supply complete details and copies of action taken against World Peace of United Nations University with copies of replies with present status of World Peace of United Nations University, organizing events against payment, granting degree and certificate, supplying the copy of legal authority to perform in India, without approval of UGC and other legal educational establishments.
2) Supply approved copies of curriculum, by UGC, related to World Peace of United Nations University.
3) Supply copies of UGC recognition as University, and their degree and certificates are valid and approved, making eligible to get admission for higher studies, and eligible for jobs in the Government agencies. STOP impersonation and take action, moving FIR before Delhi Police, supplying copies to follow up.
3.1. The CPIO replied vide letter dated 20.09.2024 and the same is reproduced as under:-
You are informed that as per record the World Peace of United Nations University is not recognized by UGC under Section 2(f) or Section 3 of UGC Act, 1956. However, the matter under process of UGC.
3.2 Dissatisfied with the response received from the CPIO, the Complainant filed a First Appeal dated Nil alleging that the information provided was incomplete, false and misleading, which was not adjudicated by the Fist Appellate Authority.Page 4 of 13
3.3. Aggrieved with the non-receipt of FAA's order, the Complainant approached the Commission with the instant Complaint dated Nil.
Complaint No. CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/648334
4. The Complainant filed an RTI application dated 29.08.2024 seeking information on the following points:
Supply complete details and information, related to various complaints with UGC, and all Enforcement agencies, proved no coordination among themselves, to prevent crime and fraud, cybercrime as well, related to
1) World Peace of United Nations University /
2) Commonwealth Vocational University /
3) California Public University /
4) National Virtual University /
5) Socrates Social Research University /
6) Thames International University/
7) Laughter Yoga University.
My complaints, even UGC circulars, to boost community policing as scouting with without gain.
2023107974, 2023112567 Delhi CM. 2024001207 LG Listening Post and so on. Supply draft on amendment in punishments, violating UGC Act, 1956 and rules with regulations, introducing.
4.1. The CPIO replied vide letter dated 20.09.2024 and the same is reproduced as under:-
As per record, above mentioned universities/institutions do not come under the preview of UGC. Hence, you are requested to approach nearest police station for FIR. Further, it is stated the matter of World Peace of United Nations University is under process of UGC.Page 5 of 13
4.1. Dissatisfied with the response received from the CPIO, the Complainant filed a First Appeal dated Nil alleging that the information provided was incomplete, false and misleading, which was not adjudicated by the Fist Appellate Authority.
4. 2. Aggrieved with the non-receipt of FAA's order, the Complainant approached the Commission with the instant Complaint dated Nil.
Complaint No. CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/634273
5. The Complainant filed an RTI application dated 25.05.2024 seeking information on the following points:
1) Supply complete details, recognitions and approval of UGC to Honorary Doctorate Award Council, their award and degree, are legal and valid for employment and further education.
2) Supply the above said claims are true and acceptable in India, keeping in view UGC Act and rules and regulations. Supply the information to prefix as title DR after obtaining any recognition from Honorary Doctorate Award Council.
3) Supply complete details about the bank, movable and immovable assets of Honorary Doctorate Award Council, along with services provided and GST - Income Tax paid, since beginning till date.
5.1. The CPIO replied vide letter dated 04.06.2024 and the same is reproduced as under:-
Question does not pertain to UGC.
5.2. Dissatisfied with the response received from the CPIO, the Complainant filed a First Appeal dated 04.06.2024 alleging that the information provided was incomplete, false and misleading. The FAA vide order dated 07.06.2024 stated that:
I am directed to inform you that UGC has not framed any policy to prefix Dr. with his/her name.
5.3. Aggrieved with the non-receipt of FAA's order, the Complainant approached the Commission with the instant Complaint dated Nil.Page 6 of 13
Complaint No. CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/624317
6. The Complainant filed an RTI application dated 21.03.2024 seeking information on the following points:
Supply complete details, with all relevant documents and copies of show cause notice issued, reply received, with present status, related to:
1) World Peace of United Nations University.
2) California Public University
3) Socrates Social Research University
4) Commonwealth Vocational University
5) SSA University
6) Social Awareness and Peace University
7) Thames International University
8) Indian Virtual University for Peace and Education
9) Columbia Pacific Virtual University
10) Bharath Virtual University for Peace & Education
11) National Virtual University
12) British National University of Queen Mary Supply the present status and eligibility of all fake 12 University, as stated above, as per UGC Act, Rules and Regulations, along with all recognitions, certificate, degree, diploma awarded by them, make eligibles for further education and job in India. Supplies copies of all FIR lodged, under investigation, trials in court of law and decides, for the violation of UGC Act, Rules and Regulations. Supply complete details about Community Policing in good faith, along with Whistleblowing Act.
13) Supply all copies of annual reports, along with complete details about, the curriculum of all 12 fake University as stated above, and fee received with
14) Complete details of the operators and promoters of all 12 fake University as stated above.Page 7 of 13
6.1. The CPIO replied vide letter dated 23.04.2024 and the same is reproduced as under:-
1.As per records available in the Anti Mal Practice Cell that the World Pease of United Nations University is not recognized by UGC under section 2 f or section 3 of the UGC Act 1956. Hence, World Pease of United Nations University is neither authorized to award any degree nor valid for Higher Education or Employment purpose.
UGC has already issued Warning Notice to World Pease of United Nations University on dated 25.01.2024 (copy enclosed) for submitting the compliance report. The reply is awaited till date.
2 to 12. As mentioned at S. No. 2 to 14, No such information in this regard is available in AMPC, UGC.
13 to 14. No such required documents related to the universities or institutions in this office. Moreover, these universities or institutions have not been enlisted in the list of fake universities which may also been seen on UGC website.
6.1. Dissatisfied with the response received from the CPIO, the Complainant filed a First Appeal dated Nil alleging that the information provided was incomplete, false and misleading, which was not adjudicated by the Fist Appellate Authority.
6.2. Aggrieved with the non-receipt of FAA's order, the Complainant approached the Commission with the instant Complaint dated Nil.
Complaint No. CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/619294
7. The Complainant filed an RTI application dated 11.11.2023 seeking information on the following points:
Community Policing as scouting for University Grants Commission Act, 1956 Supply complete details, action taken for the violation with present status and University Grants Commission agenda with minutes, communication and compliance, related to:Page 8 of 13
1) 1.Section 2(f): University means a University established or incorporated by or under a Central Act, a Provincial Act or a State Act, and includes any such institution as may, in consultation with the University concerned, be recognized by the Commission in accordance with the regulations made in this behalf under this Act.
2) Section 3: Application of Act to institutions for higher studies other than Universities. The Central Government may, on the advice of the Commission, declare by notification in the Official Gazette, that any institution for higher education, other than a University, shall be deemed to be a University for the purposes of this Act, and on such a declaration being made, all the provisions of this Act shall apply to such institution as if it were a University within the meaning of clause (f) of section 2.
3) Section 22: Right to confer degrees-
(1) The right of conferring or granting degrees shall be exercised only by a University established or incorporated by or under a Central Act, a Provincial Act or a State Act or an institution deemed to be a University under section 3 or an institution specially empowered by an Act of Parliament to confer or grant degrees. (2) Save as provided in sub-section (1), no person or authority shall confer, or grant, or hold himself or itself out as entitled to confer or grant, any degree. (3) For the purposes of this section, degree means any such degree as may, with the previous approval of the Central Government, be specified in this behalf by the Commission by notification in the official Gazette.
4) Section 23: Prohibition of the use of the word University in certain cases-
No institution, whether a corporate body or not, other than a University established or incorporated by or under a Central Act, a Provincial Act or a State Act shall be entitled to have the word University associated with its name in any manner whatsoever: Provided that nothing in this section shall, for a period of two years Page 9 of 13 from the commencement of this Act, apply to an institution which, immediately before such commencement, had the word University associated with its name.
5) Section 24: Penalties-
Whoever contravenes the provisions of section 22 or section 23 shall be punishable with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, and if the person contravening is an association or other body of individuals, every member of such association or other body who knowingly or willful authorizes or permits the contravention shall be punishable with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees. Along with action taken - FIR on Fake University, including:
1.World Peace of United Nations University.
2. Commonwealth Vocational University.
3.California Public University.
7.1. Having not received any response from the CPIO, the Complainant filed a First Appeal dated 29.12.2023. The FAA vide order dated 15.01.2024 stated that;
I have considered the facts and submissions advanced by the Complainant and PIO. In this regard it is submitted that information on the issue has already been supplied to him/her which was found to be satisfactory as per record. Besides, clarification/interpretation cannot be given under RTI Act 2005.
7.2. Aggrieved with the FAA's order, the Complainant approached the Commission with the instant Complaint dated Nil.
8. The Complainant remained absent during the hearing despite notice and on behalf of the respondent Ms. Anuja Saxena, Under Secretary, Mr. M.L Meena Assistant, Mr. M.K Meena, Under Secretary, Mr. Manish Sewan, LDC, Ms. Ranjana Verma, S.O and Ms. Kanchan Sharma, C.A, attended the hearing in-person.
9. In file nos. CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/651526, CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/648334 and CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/648933, the respondent submitted that the Complainant had sought action taken report on his complaints w.r.t fake Universities and institutes mentioned in Page 10 of 13 the RTI applications etc. He stated that the RTI applications in all the above-mentioned cases had been responded vide letters dated 20.09.2024, wherein, it had been informed that the Universities and institutes mentioned in the RTI applications were not recognised by UGC under section 2 (f) or Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956. Moreover, the FAA also informed the Complainant that the UGC has already sent warning notice to the World Peace of United Nations University for comments and reply is awaited. Further, in file no. CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/634273, the respondent stated that the Complainant had sought clarification regarding prefixing as title 'Dr' after obtaining any recognition from Honorary Doctorate Award Council to which the FAA vide order dated 07.06.2024 informed the complainant that UGC has not framed any policy to prefix 'Dr' with his/her name. When enquired by the Commission regarding disposing of the First Appeals in file nos.CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/651526,CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/649621,CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/64 8933,CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/648334 and CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/624317, the respondent submitted that the First Appeals had been disposed of on 27.11.2024 and 24.06.2024.
10. In file no. CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/624317, the respondent further stated that the RTI application had been responded by the CPIO vide letter dated 23.04.2024. Further, in file no. CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/619294, the RTI application was responded on 13.12.2023 and 28.12.2023, wherein, necessary information had been provided to the Complainant. All the written submission of the respondent has been taken on record and the relevant extract is reproduced as under:-
3. It is informed that each year, the UGC communicates with the Principal Secretaries/Education Secretaries of all State Governments and Union Territories to inform UGC about any unrecognized or self-styled educational institutions operating in their respective jurisdictions. This enables the UGC to take appropriate action against such institutions. (Copy enclosed)
4. Additionally, the UGC publishes a Public Notice each year to raise awareness among stakeholders, advising them to check the UGC website before proceeding for admissions. (Copy enclosed) Page 11 of 13
11. The Commission after adverting to the facts and circumstances of the case, hearing the respondent and perusal of records, observes that the CPIO's concerned have provided available information or reply to the complainant vide letters dated 20.09.2024. 18.10.2024, 04.06.2024, 23.04.2024, 13.12.2023 and 28.12.2023. It is not the case that the respondent has not given any reply to the Complainant and no mala fide could be attributed to the decision taken by them. Further, in the absence of the complainant or any additional objections thereof, the averments made by the respondent are taken on record. That being so and the replies having been given to the complainant, there appears to be no merit in the complaints. Accordingly, the complaints are closed.
12. Further, in file no. CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/649621, the Commission takes serious note of the absence of the respondent despite notice being duly served upon them. The respondent is directed to submit written submissions explaining reasons for his/her absence during the hearing without seeking leave of the Commission, within 15 days of receipt of this order. Accordingly, the complaints are disposed of.
Copy of the decision be provided free of cost to the parties.
Sd/-
(Anandi Ramalingam) (आनंदी रामिलंगम) Information Commissioner (सूचना आयु ) िदनांक/Date: 16.04.2025 Authenticated true copy Sharad Kumar (शरद कुमार) Dy. Registrar (उप पंजीयक) 011-26180514 Addresses of the parties:
1. The CPIO University Grants Commission, CPIO, RTI Cell, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi -110002 Page 12 of 13
2. Naresh Kadyan Annexure of Second Appeals Sl. No. Second Appeal No. 1 CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/651526 2 CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/649621 3 CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/648933 4 CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/648334 5 CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/634273 6 CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/624317 7 CIC/UGCOM/C/2024/619294 Page 13 of 13 Recomendation(s) to PA under section 25(5) of the RTI Act, 2005:-
Nil Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org) Recomendation(s) to PA under section 25(5) of the RTI Act, 2005:-
Nil Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org) Recomendation(s) to PA under section 25(5) of the RTI Act, 2005:-
Nil Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org) Recomendation(s) to PA under section 25(5) of the RTI Act, 2005:-
Nil Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org) Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org)