Students who completed undergraduate and postgraduate degrees through distance education at Annamalai University between 2015 and 2022 have approached the Supreme Court seeking legal remedy. Four students from Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have filed the petition, highlighting the dire situation faced by thousands.
In March 2022, the University Grants Commission (UGC) issued a public notice revoking recognition of Annamalai University’s distance education programs conducted during this period. The reason cited was the violation of UGC norms, including unauthorized study centers outside Tamil Nadu, despite Madras High Court’s earlier permission to operate these centers.
The students allege that UGC’s actions have jeopardized their future. Annamalai University had continued its distance education courses even after its approval was withdrawn, creating a crisis for those who completed their programs.
In 2023, Madras High Court directed UGC to recognize these courses, but the commission appealed to the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, Annamalai University regained UGC approval for 27 courses in 2023 and 2024 after achieving an A+ grade accreditation.
The petition lists UGC, Annamalai University, and the Tamil Nadu government as respondents. The Supreme Court will hear the case on January 7, 2025. Amal, one of the petitioners and a former litigant at Madras High Court, stated that the future of thousands of students hangs in balance due to the conflicting stances of UGC and the university.
