The Indian Nursing Council (INC) has formally requested the Medical Education and Research Department of the Government of Punjab (GoP) to revoke the recognition previously granted to Desh Bhagat University (DBU). This request comes in the wake of grave allegations of malpractice against the institution, jeopardizing the academic future of numerous students.
A copy of the letter reveals that the Joint Secretary of the Indian Nursing Council addressed the Principal Secretary of the Department of Medical Education & Research, GoP, drawing attention to the order dated September 20, 2023. This order pertains to allegations of serious misconduct on the part of Desh Bhagat University in its administration of nursing courses.
The letter from the Indian Nursing Council states, “It is noted that the Desh Bhagat University has been repeatedly found to be involved in malpractice in running the nursing courses. Earlier there had been allegations against the University that nursing qualifications were being granted to non-attending students.” The case of one such student, Priyanka Rani, is highlighted as a specific example of such irregularities.
The Indian Nursing Council had initiated action against Desh Bhagat University under Section 14 of the Indian Nursing Council Act for the withdrawal of recognition of qualifications granted by the said institution.
Furthermore, the letter underscores that Desh Bhagat University had once again engaged in severe malpractice by admitting more students than the permitted strength, putting the futures of these students at risk.
These allegations are described as highly consequential, as they impact a substantial group of students who were admitted without adhering to the proper procedures, thereby jeopardizing their academic progress.
Additionally, the university is accused of running nursing courses in violation of guidelines and regulations set forth by the Indian Nursing Council.
The letter also reports that the Executive Committee of the Indian Nursing Council had discussed the matter raised in the letter dated September 20, 2023, issued by the Government of Punjab in a meeting held on September 22, 2023.
The Committee resolved that the nursing qualifications granted by Desh Bhagat University would no longer be recognized under the Act. A formal declaration to this effect is expected to be issued soon.
In light of the Government of Punjab’s findings, which indicate that the university admitted students in an unauthorized manner and exceeded the previously permitted student intake capacity, the Indian Nursing Council has urged the authorities to take immediate action. They have requested the transfer and adjustment of affected students to other accredited colleges to ensure they receive adequate nursing education. Furthermore, the Council has called for the immediate withdrawal of the recognition granted to Desh Bhagat University.
This move aims to safeguard the interests and educational prospects of the impacted students. Importantly, the transfer of students will not lead to an increase in the student intake capacity of the receiving colleges for the current academic year.
