UGC Identifies 32 Fake Universities Across India

UGC Identifies 32 Fake Universities Across India

Delhi has the highest number of fake universities with 12 institutions

CNB WORLD TIMES

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has identified 32 fake universities operating across India as of February 2026 and has intensified action against institutions falsely claiming university status.

According to the Ministry of Education, the UGC has issued clarification letters, compliance notices, show-cause notices and warning notices to these self-styled institutions. Public notices have also been published on the UGC website to alert students and the public against enrolling in such institutions.

The Central Government has directed Chief Secretaries and Higher Education Departments of all States and Union Territories to take strict legal action against fake universities. States have also been asked to register FIRs against institutions operating in violation of the UGC Act, 1956, and to ensure their closure. Authorities have been instructed to report any additional fake universities functioning in their jurisdictions that are not included in the UGC's existing list.

According to the latest state-wise list, Delhi has the highest number of fake universities with 12 institutions, followed by Uttar Pradesh (4). West Bengal, Maharashtra, Puducherry, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh have two fake universities each, while Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Haryana and Arunachal Pradesh have one each.

The UGC has also written to the Higher Education Departments and Principal Secretaries of the concerned states, urging them to take appropriate action against these institutions and protect students from fraudulent educational practices.

The latest list of fake universities is available on the UGC website for students and parents to verify the status of institutions before seeking admission.