Filing a complaint against a college or university in India depends on the nature of the grievance, such as allegations of discrimination, disputes over fee refunds, or concerns about faculty misconduct, and the specific institution involved. Here’s a comprehensive guide to approaching the appropriate authorities:
1. Internal Grievance Redressal Mechanism:
-
College/University Level: Most institutions have an internal complaint mechanism, often a grievance redressal committee or an ombudsman (as per the rules of the University Grants Commission or All India Council for Technical Education). This should be your first point of contact. Start by filing a written complaint with the relevant authority within the institution.
-
University Ombudsman: Some universities have an ombudsman, an independent official who investigates complaints. This is an option if the GRC doesn’t resolve your issue or if you prefer a neutral third party.
Note: Before filing a complaint, gather evidence. Document dates, times, and specific details of the incident. Photos, videos, emails, or any relevant documentation can strengthen your case.
2. Government Bodies for Higher Education::
1. University Grants Commission (UGC):
If your concern relates to a university or a deemed university, and the internal mechanism does not yield satisfactory results, you can approach the UGC through their online portal “e-Samadhan”.
This is ideal for grievances related to UGC regulations, unfair practices, discrimination, or faculty issues.
- Phone Number: 1800111656 (general query), +917923268279 (for technical help)
- Email: ugc.technical@inflibnet.ac.in
2. All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE):
For complaints against technical institutions (engineering, management, etc.), AICTE has a dedicated grievance redressal mechanism.
3. National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC):
NAAC deals with complaints related to the quality and accreditation of higher education institutions.
Tips: If your complaint involves ragging, report it to the Anti-Ragging Grievance Cell helpline or email here:
- Helpline: 18001805522
- Email: helpline@antiragging.in
4. Other Regulatory Bodies:
Depending on your college’s affiliation, other regulatory bodies for complaints specific to medical education, dental, pharmacy, nursing, or architectural education, respectively are:
- National Medical Commission
- Dental Council of India (DCI)
- Pharmacy Council of India (PCI)
- Indian Nursing Council (INC)
- Council of Architecture (CoA)
3. Regulatory & Consumer Authorities:
- National Consumer Helpline: If your complaint is related to unfair trade practices, fees & charges, or deficiency in educational service, you can file a complaint with the National Consumer Helpline (NCH).
- Integrated Grievance Redressal Mechanism (INGRAM): The Department of Higher Education has INGRAM, a portal where you can lodge complaints related to higher education. Alternatively, you may use the CPGRAMS (pgportal.gov.in).
4. Legal Action:
-
Consumer Courts: If your complaint is about a deficiency in the quality of educational service or unfair business practices in universities or colleges, you can approach consumer courts through the E-DAAKHIL portal under the Consumer Protection Act.
-
Civil Courts: For more complex issues or where specific legal rights have been violated, you may need to seek redressal through civil courts.
Tips:
- Document Everything: Keep copies of all communication, complaints, and responses.
- Seek Legal Advice: If you’re unsure about the best course of action, consult a lawyer specializing in education law.
- Join Student Organizations: Student unions and organizations can often provide support and guidance in filing complaints.
For more information, read this article: How to file a complaint against your college in India?
Still, need help? 
Ask by replying below. 
We will help you.