University Returns Certificates of the Student in Andhra Pradesh upon the Orders of the High Court.

A student from Kadapa District of Andhra Pradesh has filed a Writ Petition against Mohan Babu University, Tirupati, for allegedly withholding his original academic certificates, thereby preventing him from seeking employment opportunities. Advocate S.R.A. Rozedar, appearing for the student, argued the case, emphasizing the illegality of the university’s actions under the relevant educational regulations. 

The petitioner completed his SSC in 2021 and Intermediate Education in the year 2023. He secured a seat in aforesaid University for Civil Engineering Program. Due to sudden financial difficulties, the petitioner struggled to continue his education. Despite paying initial fees, his family could not afford further expenses, leading him to seek discontinuation of his studies and return of his original certificates. 

The petitioner and his father visited the university to submit a discontinuation form and retrieve his certificates but were told they needed to pay complete fee for the remaining semesters. The university staff refused to provide the discontinuation form without payment. The petitioner issued a legal notice in March 2024, requesting the return of his certificates. The petitioner has approached the High Court of Andhra Pradesh, citing violations of the Andhra Pradesh Private Universities Act 2016 and UGC guidelines, which mandate the return of original certificates after verification. 

Filing under Article 226 of the Constitution, the petitioner seeks a Writ of Mandamus to compel the university to release his certificates, claiming the demand for fees is unconstitutional and arbitrary. The petitioner highlights the urgent need for his certificates to apply for government exams scheduled. This case highlights the issue of educational institutions’ compliance with regulatory guidelines and the rights of students facing financial hardships. 

Finally, upon the orders of the High Court, the university has considered the representation of the student and returned the original certificates without requiring payment for the remaining semesters. This case underscores the importance of regulatory compliance by educational institutions and the protection of students’ rights in financial hardship situations.