UP Cabinet Approves Liquidation of JS University Amid Fake Degree Scandal
Cabinet Meeting Decisions
In a significant cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Uttar Pradesh government has sanctioned the liquidation of JS University located in Shikohabad, Firozabad district, due to its involvement in issuing fraudulent degrees. Following this decision, all university records will be transferred to Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Agra.
Investigation Findings
Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyay provided insights into the liquidation decision, revealing that investigations uncovered the university's issuance of counterfeit and backdated mark sheets and degrees for the B.P.Ed. program. These documents were reportedly utilized by candidates in the Rajasthan Physical Education Teacher Recruitment Examination-2022. The Rajasthan Police's inquiry, which led to the Chancellor and Registrar's arrests, highlighted severe misconduct.
Legal Violations Identified
The minister noted that JS University breached multiple legal provisions, including the improper granting of degrees, distribution of fraudulent mark sheets, and non-compliance with land requirements. Consequently, the Yogi government has opted for the university's liquidation. Post-liquidation, all records will be managed by Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar University, and previously issued mark sheets and degrees will undergo verification. An interim committee will also be established to supervise university operations during the liquidation process.
New Educational Opportunities in Western UP
In addition to the liquidation decision, the cabinet approved the establishment of an off-campus center for IIMT University, Meerut, in Greater Noida. This initiative aims to enhance higher education access in Western Uttar Pradesh and the NCR region, allowing local students to benefit from quality education. The Uttar Pradesh Private Universities Act, 2019, along with its amendments, supports the creation of such off-campus centers. The sponsoring institution has secured 4.796 acres of land in the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority area, with a Letter of Intent issued on February 25, 2025.
