HC issues notice to tech varsity VC, registrar over contempt plea

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued notices to the vice-chancellor and registrar of IK Gujral Punjab Technical University (IKGPTU) in a contempt petition alleging violation of the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) directive prohibiting new affiliations and increased intake in healthcare courses.

The petition, filed by Amardeep Gujral, claims that despite clear NCAHP orders, IKGPTU continued granting affiliations. During a previous hearing, the High Court had directed the vice-chancellor to submit an affidavit explaining compliance. Gujral alleges that when the registrar appeared via video-conference on August 12, 2025, he falsely stated that the university first received the orders on August 7, 2025, while evidence shows officials, including the vice-chancellor, were aware months earlier.

The petitioner cited emails from March 2025, a May 2025 meeting with college representatives discussing the prohibition, and affiliation letters issued in June 2025 referencing NCAHP orders. He also noted internal advice cautioning the university against violating the directive. The High Court heard the contempt plea on November 10 and has listed the matter for further hearing on December 26.