Munish Sood
Mandi
The academic future of nearly 100 students enrolled in the B.Ed programme at Vallabh Government College (VGC), Mandi, hangs in balance after the Himachal Pradesh High Court disposed of a petition linked to the course’s recognition.
Court’s Decision
The petition filed by the Higher Education Institution Society was closed after the Court noted that the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), through its Northern Regional Committee (NRC), had already passed a fresh order on February 2, 2026. The NRC once again withdrew recognition of the B.Ed programme (two units – 100 seats).
Earlier, in July 2024, the NCTE had cancelled recognition of the course. The institution challenged the decision, and the matter reached the High Court, which remanded it back to the NRC for reconsideration. With the NRC reaffirming its withdrawal, the Court observed that the earlier petition had become irrelevant. It clarified that the institution may file a statutory appeal under the NCTE Act, 1993. The interim relief that had allowed the college to participate in counselling has also been vacated.
Grounds for Withdrawal
The NRC cited several irregularities, including:
- The B.Ed course allegedly being run by a private society inside a government college campus.
- Government employees reportedly serving the private society.
- Lack of oversight by the Higher Education Department and the university.
- Charging of self-financed fees higher than government norms.
- No rent or utilisation charges paid to the college for nearly 20 years.
- Non-compliance with NCTE Regulations, 2014.
Impact on Students
Around 100 students admitted through counselling by Sardar Patel University had paid fees, begun classes, and were preparing for first semester exams. The university had postponed exams due to the ongoing case. With the High Court’s disposal and NRC’s fresh withdrawal order, uncertainty over their academic future has deepened.
The Court made no adverse remarks against the students but issued no directions for their continuation, leaving the matter to further legal or administrative resolution.
College Response
Principal Sanjeev Thakur said he has not yet received a copy of the High Court order and would comment only after formally examining it.
For now, students and parents await clarity, with possible options including migration, alternative arrangements, or further appeals to safeguard the academic year.
