The Dr.B.R. Ambedkar Open University Act, 1982

DR. B.R. AMBEDKAR OPEN UNIVERSITY ACT, 1982. (ACT NO. 11 OF 1982) ARRANGEMENT OF SECTIONS Sections CHAPTER I. PRELIMINARY. 1. Short title, extent and commencement. 2. Definitions. CHAPTER II The University. 3. The University. 4. Objects. 5. Powers and functions of the University. 6. University open to all persons. 7. Inspection and inquiry. CHAPTER III OFFICERS OF THE UNIVERSITY. 8. Officers of the University. 9. The Chancellor. 10. The Vice-Chancellor. 10A. The Rector. 11. The Directors. 12. The Registrar. 13. The Finance Officer. 2 [Act No. 11 of 1982] CHAPTER IV AUTHORITIES OF THE UNIVERSITY 14. Authorities of the University. 15. The Executive Council. 15-A. Academic Senate. 16. Planning and Monitoring Board. 17. The Finance Committee. 18. The Faculties and the Boards of Studies. 19. Term of office of members of the Executive Council, Academic Senate and Planning and Monitoring Board. 19-A. Special provision as to the Re-constitution of Executive Council and the members thereof. CHAPTER V UNIVERSITY FUNDS, ETC. 20. General Fund. 21. Constitution of other funds. 22. Omitted. 23. Certain restrictions in respect of financial matters. CHAPTER VI. STATUTES AND REGULATIONS 24. Statutes. 25. Statutes how made. 26. Regulations. 27. Annual report. 28. Annual Accounts. 29. Financial Estimates. [Act No. 11 of 1982] 3 30. Power to incur unforeseen expenditure. 31. Conditions of service of employees and settlement of disputes. 32. Procedure of appeal in disciplinary cases against students. 33. Right to appeal. 34. Pension, Provident Fund etc., 35. Power to remove difficulties. 36. Appointment of the first Vice-Chancellor, the first Registrar and the first Finance Officer. The Schedule. DR. B.R. AMBEDKAR OPEN UNIVERSITY ACT, 1982.1 ACT No.11 OF 1982. CHAPTER I. PRELIMINARY. 1. (1) This Act may be called 2Dr.B.R. Ambedkar Open Short title, extent University Act, 1982. and commencement. (2) It extends to the whole of the State of 2Telangana. (3) It shall come into force on such date as the Government may, by notification in the 2Telangana Gazette, appoint. 2. In this Act, and in all statutes and regulations unless Definitions. the context otherwise requires:- (a) “academic year” means a period of twelve months commencing on the first day of July of the year or such other period of twelve months beginning on such date as the [Executive Council] may specify in respect of all the 1. The Andhra Pradesh Open University Act, 1982 received the assent of the Governor on the 25th August, 1982. The said Act subsequently renamed, amended and in force in the combined State, as on 02.06.2014, has been adapted to the State of Telangana, under section 101 of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014 (Central Act 6 of 2014) vide. the Notification issued in G.O.Ms.No.23, Higher Education (UE) Department, dated 10.11.2014. 2. Substituted by G.O.Ms.No.23, Higher Education (UE) Department, dated 10.11.2014. . Throughout the Act For Substituted Academic Council - Academic Senate Planning Board - Planning and Monitoring Board (Act No.13 of 1991) Board of Management - Executive Council (Act No.13 of 1995). 2 [Act No. 11 of 1982] study centres under the control of the University or any particular centre thereof; 3[(a-1) “approved institution” means an institution not being an institution maintained by the University for imparting instruction in relation to any learning process; (a-2) “authority” means an authority of the University specified in section 14; (a-3) “committee of courses” means the committee of courses in a faculty;] (b) “Co-ordinator” means the head of a study centre; (c) “Correspondence-cum-Contact Programme Student” means student enrolled in any one of the study centres of the University recognised as such by the statutes; 4[(d) “department” means a department and includes a centre maintained by the University; (d-1) “Director” means a Director appointed under section 11;] (e) “Director of Higher Education” includes a Joint Director incharge of Higher Education; (f) “employee” means any person appointed by the University, and includes teachers and other staff of the University; 3. Clauses (a-1), (a-2) and (a-3) inserted by Act No.17 of 1985. 4. Substituted by Act No.17 of 1985. [Act No.11 of 1982] 3 (g) “Government” means the State Government of 5Telangana; 6[(h) “Head of Department” means a teacher so appointed being responsible for the co-ordination of instruction, training and research in any department; (h-1) “institution” means an institution maintained by the University;] (i) “prescribed” means prescribed by the statutes or regulations; (j) “Secretary to Government” includes a Joint Secretary to Government and a Deputy Secretary to Government; (k) “student” means a person who is enrolled for studies in one of the study centres and pursues studies attending the prescribed contact and correspondence programme; (l) “study centre” means study centre within the University area where the students enroll to carry on their contact programme; 7[(m) “teacher” includes professor, associate professor, assistant professor or any other person engaged in imparting instruction in relation to any learning process and designated as a teacher by the regulations; 5. Substituted by G.O.Ms.No.23, Higher Education (UE) Department, dated 10.11.2014. 6. Substituted by Act No.17 of 1985. 7. Clauses (m) and (n) substituted by Act No.17 of 1985. 4 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (n) “teacher of the University” means a person so appointed by the University for imparting instruction in relation to any learning process;] (o) “University” means 8[Dr.B.R. Ambedkar Open University] as constituted under this Act; (p) “University area” means the area to which this Act extends; (q) “University headquarters” means the place where the administrative officers are situated. CHAPTER II The University. The University. 3. (1) There shall be constituted in and for the State of 9Telangana, a University by the name of 8[Dr.B.R. Ambedkar Open University] 10[Telangana State] which shall consist of a Chancellor, a Vice-Chancellor, Directors, an 11[*[Executive Council], an *[Academic Senate]] and a *[Planning and Monitoring Board]. (2) It shall be a body corporate having perpetual succession and common seal and shall sue and be sued by the said corporate name. (3) In all suits and other legal proceedings by or against the University, the pleadings shall be signed and verified by the Registrar and all processes in such suits and proceedings shall be issued to, and served on the Registrar. 8. Substituted by Act No.27 of 1991. 9. Substituted by G.O.Ms.No.23, Higher Education (UE) Department, dated 10.11.2014. 10. Inserted by G.O.Ms.No.23, Higher Education (UE) Department, dated 10.11.2014. 11. Substituted by Act No.17 of 1985. [Act No.11 of 1982] 5 (4) The headquarters of the University shall be located at such place within the State as the Government may, by notification published in the 12Telangana Gazette, specify. 4. The objects of the University shall be,- Objects. 13[(a) to provide educational opportunities to those students who could not take advantage of institutions of higher learning;] (b) to realise equality of educational opportunities for higher education for a large segment of the population including those in employment, women including house- wives and adults, who wish to upgrade their education or acquire knowledge and studies in various fields 13[through distance education]; (c) to provide flexibility with regard to eligibility for enrolment, age of entry, choice of courses, methods of learning, conduct of examinations and operation of the programmes; (d) complementary to the programmes of the existing Universities in the State in the field of higher learning so as to maintain the highest standards on par with the best Universities in the country; (e) to promote integration within the State through its policies and programmes; (f) to offer degree courses and non-degree certificate courses for the benefit of working population in various fields and for the benefit of those who wish to enrich their lives by studying subjects of cultural and aesthetic values; 12. Substituted by G.O.Ms.No.23, Higher Education (UE) Department, dated 10.11.2014. 13. Substituted by Act No.17 of 1985. 6 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (g) to make provision for research and for the advancement and dissemination of knowledge. Powers and 5. The University shall have the following powers and functions of the functions, namely:- University. 14[(a) to provide for instructions and training through distance education; (b) to provide for instruction in such branches of learning, technology or vocations as it may deem fit, and to make provision for research and for the advancement and dissemination of knowledge in such manner as it may determine;] (c) to hold examinations and to confer degrees, diplomas and other academic distinctions on persons who have pursued a course of study in the University and its study centres; (d) to confer degrees and other academic distinctions on persons who have carried on research under conditions prescribed; (e) to confer honorary degrees or other academic distinctions on approved persons under conditions prescribed; 15[(f) to create posts, with the prior sanction of the Government, for teaching, research, extension service, administration and other related purposes and to appoint persons thereto;] 14. Clauses (a) and (b) of section 5 substituted by Act No.17 of 1985. 15. Clauses (f) and (g) substituted as clause (f) by Act No.17 of 1985. [Act No.11 of 1982] 7 16[(h) to acquire, hold and transfer property, both movable and immovable, which may have been acquired by it, for the purposes of the University and to accept on behalf of the University, endowments, bequests, donations and other transfers of property made to it and to contract and to do all other things, necessary for incidental to the purposes of the University; (i) to establish teaching departments, faculties, laboratories, libraries, museums, workshops, audience level regional centres (study centres) and other centres of learning for development of teaching and research and educational technology and to make such arrangements for their maintenance, management and administration as it may determine;] (k) to inspect the study centres and to take measures to ensure that proper standards of instruction are maintained in them; 17[(l) [xxx]] (m) to make special provision for the spread of higher education among educationally backward classes of citizens; (n) to make special provision for study centres and institutions for women students; (o) to establish research institutions in any part of the University area; (p) to fix fees and to demand and receive such fees and other charges as may be prescribed; 16. Clauses (h), (i) and (j) substituted as clauses (h) and (i) by Act No.17 of 1985. 17. Omitted by Act No.17 of 1985. 8 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (q) to institute and manage- (i) a Department of Publications; (ii) a University Press; (iii) an Employment Bureau; (iv) an Information Bureau; (v) Boards of University Extension; (vi) Guidance and Counselling Centres and such other organisations created by it; 18[(r) to co-operate, collaborate or associate with any other University, authority or institution of learning in such manner and for such purposes as the University may determine;] (s) generally to do all such other acts and things whether incidental to the powers aforesaid or not, as may be necessary or desirable to further the objects of the University as to cultivate and promote arts, fine arts sciences, professional studies, technology and other branches of learning and to promote the interest of its students; (t) to supervise and control the conduct and discipline of the students of the University and to make arrangements for promoting general welfare. 18. Substituted by Act No.17 of 1985. [Act No.11 of 1982] 9 19[(u) to provide educational facilities to people who cannot leave their homes and jobs, in such manner, as it may determine; (v) to provide such facilities to masses for their educational uplift as it may determine; (w) to provide facilities for the training of teachers in such manner as it may determine; (x) to provide for such instruction for persons not being students of the University as it may determine, and to grant certificates and diplomas to such persons; (y) to make provisions for research and development of educational technology and advisory services and with those objects to enter into arrangements with other institutions or with public bodies under prescribed conditions; (z) to provide for making of films and cassettes and other audio-visual material and enter into arrangements with All India Radio and Doordarshan and such other organizations as it may deem fit; (z-1) to provide for the reproduction and publication of teaching material and other works; (z-2) to undertake educational experiments and evolve contents, systems and methods of education for the furtherance of the objects of the University; (z-3) to approve any institution of higher learning or studies for such purposes as the University may determine, and to withdraw such approval; 19. Added (clauses (u) to (z-9) with proviso by Act No.17 of 1985. 10 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (z-4) to appoint visiting professors, emeritus professors, fellows, scholars, resident artists, resident writers or such other persons who may contribute to the advancement of the objects of the University; (z-5) to approve persons working in- (a) any institution co-operating, collaborating or associating with the University; or (b) any approved institution for imparting instruction or supervising research or both and to withdraw such approval; (z-6) to appoint persons working in any other University, institution or organisation as teachers of the University for a specified period; (z-7) to establish campuses within the territorial limits of the University; (z-8) to admit students of any other University or college to any examination of the University subject to such conditions as the University may lay down for the purpose; (z-9) to accept funds from the Government of India, the State Government, the University Grants Commission and also borrow money from a bank or a corporation, for the purposes of the University: Provided that where the University intends to borrow money from a bank or a corporation or both, exceeding an amount of rupees fifty thousand at a time or in the aggregate, it shall obtain the prior written approval of the Government therefor.] [Act No.11 of 1982] 11 6. No person shall be excluded from holding any office in University open to all persons. the University or from membership of any of the authorities of the University or from admission to any degree, diploma or other distinction or course of study, on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth or any of them and it shall not adopt or impose on any person any test whatsoever of religious belief or profession in order to entitle him to be admitted thereto as a teacher or student or to hold any office therein or to qualify for any degree, diploma or other distinction or to enjoy or exercise any of the privileges of the University: Provided that nothing in this section shall be deemed to prevent the University- (i) from maintaining any centre or institution, intended exclusively for women, either for education, instruction or residence; and (ii) from making special provisions in any study centre for admission of women, weaker sections of the people and in particular the scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and backward classes. 7. (1) The Government shall have the right to cause an Inspection and inspection to be made by a committee of not less than two inquiry. persons, of the University, its buildings, laboratories, libraries, museums, workshops and equipment, and of any study centre maintained by the University and also to cause an inquiry to be made into the teaching and other work conducted or done by the University, or in respect of any matter connected with the University. The Government shall, in every case, give notice to the University of their intention to cause such inspection or inquiry to be made and the University shaIl be entitled to be represented thereat. 12 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (2) The Government shaIl forward to the Vice- ChanceIlor a copy of the inspection report for obtaining the views of the *[Executive Council] and on receipt of such views, the Government may tender such advice as they consider necessary and fix a time-limit for action to be taken by the University. (3) The *[Executive Council] shall, within such time as the Government may fix, report to them through the Vice- Chancellor the action which has been taken or is proposed to be taken on the advice tendered by them. (4) The Government may, where action has not been taken by the University to their satisfaction, within the time fixed and after considering any explanation furnished or representation made by the *[Executive Council], issue such directions as they may think fit, and the University shall comply with such directions. CHAPTER III OFFICERS OF THE UNIVERSITY. Officers of the 8. The following shall be the officers of the University:- University. (1) The Chancellor; (2) The Vice-Chancellor; 20[(2A) The Rector;] (3) The Directors; (4) The Registrar; (5) The Finance Officer; and 20. Inserted by Act No.13 of 1991. [Act No.11 of 1982] 13 (6) Such other persons as may be declared by the statutes to be the officers of the University. 9. 21[(1) The Chancellor shall be appointed by the The Chancellor. Government.] (2) The Chancellor shall, by virtue of his office, be the head of the University and shall, when present, preside at convocations of the University. He shall exercise such other powers and perform such other duties as may be conferred on or vested in him by or under the provisions of this Act. (3) The Chancellor may, by order in writing, annul any proceeding of the University which is not in conformity with this Act or the statutes: Provided that before making any such order, he shall give a notice calling upon the University to show cause why such an order should not be made and if any cause is shown within the time specified therefor in the said notice, shall consider the same. 10. 22[(1) The Government shall constitute a Search The Vice- Committee consisting of:- Chancellor. (i) a nominee of the *Executive Council; (ii) a nominee of the University Grants Commission; and (iii) a nominee of the State Government. 21. Substituted by Act No.7 of 2016. 22. Sub-section (1) of section 10 substituted by Act No.17 of 1985 and subsequently sub-section (1) and (1A) substituted by Act No.13 of 1991. 14 [Act No. 11 of 1982] 23[The search committee shall submit a panel of three persons to the Government in alphabetical order and the Government shall appoint the Vice-Chancellor from out of the said panel:] Provided that it shall be competent for the Government to call for a fresh panel, if they consider necessary and the Search Committee shall submit a fresh panel to the Government. (1A) The Vice-Chancellor shall not be removed from his office except by an order of the Chancellor passed on the ground of willful omission or refusal to carry out the provisions of this Act, or abuse of the powers vested in him and after due enquiry ordered by the Government, by the Lokayukta or by such person who is or has been a Judge of a High Court or the Supreme Court as may be appointed by the Chancellor in which the Vice-Chancellor shall have an opportunity of making his representation against such removal: Provided that where the enquiry is conducted by a person who is or has been a Judge of High Court or the Supreme Court, the report of such an enquiry shall be forwarded to the Government and the Chancellor shall act in accordance with the advice tendered by the Government on a consideration of the report while exercising his powers under this sub-section: Provided further that where the Lokayukta enquires into an allegation against the Vice-Chancellor under the Act 11 of 1983. 24Telangana Lokayukta Act, 1983, then, notwithstanding anything contained in section 12 of that Act, the Lokayukta shall submit a report to the Government and the Chancellor 23. Substituted by Act No.3 of 2011 and subsequently substituted by Act No.7 of 2016. 24. Adapted by G.O.Ms.No.45, Law (F) Department, dated 01.06.2016. [Act No.11 of 1982] 15 shall act in accordance with the advice tendered by the Government on a consideration of the report while exercising his powers under this sub-section.] (2) The Vice-Chancellor shall be the academic head and the principal executive officer of the University and shall exercise general supervision and control over its affairs and give effect to the decisions of all the authorities of the University. (3) The Vice-Chancellor may, if he is of opinion that immediate action is necessary on any matter, exercise any power conferred on any authority of the University by or under this Act and shall report to such authority the action taken by him on such matter: Provided that if the authority concerned is of opinion that such action ought not to have been taken, it may refer the matter to the Chancellor whose decision thereon shall be final: Provided further that any person in the service of the University who is aggrieved by the action taken by the Vice- Chancellor under this sub-section shall have the right to appeal against such action to the *[Executive Council], within three months from the date on which decision on such action is communicated to him and thereupon the *[Executive Council] may confirm, modify or reverse the action taken by the Vice-Chancellor: 25[Provided further that a person who has completed the age of sixty years shall not be eligible for appointment as a Vice-Chancellor.] 25. Inserted by Act No.25 of 1986. 16 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (4) The Vice-Chancellor shall exercise such other powers and perform such other functions as may be prescribed by the statutes or regulations. The Rector. 26[10A. There shall be a Rector who shall be appointed by the *[Executive Council] on the recommendation of the Vice- Chancellor in such manner and on such terms and conditions as may be prescribed by the Statutes from among the Senior Professors. He shall exercise such powers and perform such duties as may be prescribed by the Statutes.] The Directors. 27[11. (1) The Directors shall be appointed by the *[Executive Council] on the recommendation of the Vice- Chancellor and shall exercise such powers and discharge such duties as may be prescribed by the Statutes. (2) Where the *[Executive Council] does not accept the recommendation of the Vice-Chancellor, the matter shall be referred to the Chancellor whose decision thereon shall be final and binding on the *[Executive Council] and the Vice- Chancellor.] The Registrar. 28[12. (1) The Registrar shall be a whole time paid officer of the University appointed by the *[Executive Council] for a term of three years or less and on such terms and conditions as may be prescribed by the statutes provided that he shall not continue in that office for more than six years. (2) The Registrar shall act as the Secretary of the *[Executive Council] and Academic Senate. He shall exercise such powers and perform such duties as may be prescribed. 26. Section 10A with marginal heading inserted by Act No.13 of 1991. 27. Section 11 with marginal heading substituted by Act No.17 of 1985. 28. Section 12 with marginal heading substituted by Act No.13 of 1991. [Act No.11 of 1982] 17 (3) The *[Executive Council] may transfer the Registrar to a suitable position even before the completion of the term provided he is shown a position in the University with the same emoluments.] 29[13. (1) The Finance Officer shall be a whole time officer The Finance of the University appointed by the University from out of a Officer. panel of three officers to be obtained from the Government in the Education Department on such terms and conditions as may be prescribed by the rules made by the Government in this behalf. He shall be the employee of the Government and the salary, allowances, pension and other remuneration shall be paid to him in the first instance out of the Consolidated Fund of the State and later recovered from the University. (2) He shall maintain the accounts of the University and also advise the University on all matters relating to income and expenditure. (3) He shall be present at the meetings of the Finance Committee and participate in the discussions but shall not be entitled to vote.] CHAPTER IV AUTHORITIES OF THE UNIVERSITY 14. The following shall be the authorities of the University, Authorities of the namely:- University. (i) the *[Executive Council]; 30[(i-a) the *[Academic Senate];] 29. Section 13 with marginal heading substituted by Act No.13 of 1991. 30. Inserted by Act No.17 of 1985. 18 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (ii) The *[Planning and Monitoring Board]; (iii) The Faculties; (iv) The Finance Committee; (v) The Board of Studies; (vi) such other bodies, as the statutes may declare to be authorities of the University. The *[Executive 15. (1) The *[Executive Council] shall be the principal Council]. executive body of the University. (2) The constitution of the *[Executive Council] and its powers and functions shall be prescribed by the statutes. Academic Senate. 31[15-A. The *[Academic Senate] shall be the principal academic body of the University and shall, subject to the provisions of this Act, the Statutes and the Regulations, have the control and generally regulate academic matters and be responsible for the maintenance of the standards of learning, education, instruction, evaluation and examination within the University, and shall exercise such other powers and perform such other duties as may be entrusted to it by the Statutes. The constitution of the *[Academic Senate] and the term of office of its members other than ex-officio members shall be as prescribed by the Statutes.] Planning and 32[16. (a) The *[Planning and Monitoring Board] shall be the Monitoring Board. principal planning body of the University and also be responsible for monitoring the development of the University on the lines indicated in the objects of University. 31. Section 15-A with marginal heading inserted by Act No.17 of 1985. 32. Section 16 with marginal heading substituted by Act No.17 of 1985. [Act No.11 of 1982] 19 (b) The constitution of the *[Planning and Monitoring Board] and its powers and functions shall be such as may be prescribed by the Statutes.] 17. The constitution of the Finance Committee and its The Finance powers and functions shall be prescribed by the statutes. Committee. 18. (1) The University shall include the Faculties of- The Faculties and the Boards of Studies. (a) Arts; (b) Science; (c) Commerce; (d) Law; (e) Education; 33[(e-1) Audio-Visual Aids and Mass Media;] (f) Such other Faculties as may be prescribed by the statutes. (2) Each Faculty shall consist of such departments of teaching as may be prescribed by the statutes. (3) The constitution, powers and functions of the Faculties, the Boards of Studies, and of such other bodies as may be declared by the statutes to be authorities of the University shall be prescribed by the statutes. 33. Inserted by Act No.17 of 1985. 20 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (4) 34[(a) There shall be a Dean for each Faculty who shall be appointed by the Vice-Chancellor from amongst the Professors in the Faculty: Provided that if there is no Professor in the Faculty, the Vice-Chancellor or a Director nominated by him shall act as the Dean.] (b) The terms and conditions of the office of Dean shall be prescribed by the statutes. 34[(c) A separate Board of Studies shall be allocated to a department or a Faculty, as the case may be.] Term of office of 19. The term of office of the members of the 35[Executive members of the Council, Academic Senate and] *[Planning and Monitoring *[Executive Board] shall be prescribed by the statutes. Council], [Academic Senate] and *[Planning and Monitoring Board]. Special provision 36[19-A. Notwithstanding anything in this Act,- as to the Re- constitution of (a) the members of the *[Executive Council] constituted *[Executive and functioning before the commencement of section 8 of Council] and the the Andhra Pradesh University Acts (Second Amendment) members thereof. Act, 1985 (hereinafter referred to as the said Act) shall continue to be such members and function only until a new *[Executive Council] is reconstituted in accordance with the provisions of this Act as amended by the said Act; 34. Substituted by Act No.17 of 1985. 35. Substituted for the words "Executive Council and" in section and marginal heading by Act No.17 of 1985. 36. Section 19-A with marginal heading inserted by Act No.17 of 1985. [Act No.11 of 1982] 21 (b) on the reconstitution of such new *[Executive Council] in accordance with the provisions of this Act as amended by the said Act, the members of the *[Executive Council] holding office immediately before such reconstitution shall cease to be such members; and (c) the persons, if any elected or nominated as members to the *[Executive Council] in accordance with the provisions of this Act prior to the commencement of the said Act shall not have the right to be or to enter into office as such members after the commencement of the said Act.] CHAPTER V UNIVERSITY FUNDS, ETC. 20. The University shall have a general fund to which shall General Fund. be credited- (i) its income including the fees and endowments; (ii) contributions or grants which may be made by the Government on such conditions as they may impose; and (iii) other contributions or grants. 21. The University shall have such other funds and Constitution of maintain such accounts as the *[Executive Council] may other funds. determine on the recommendation of the Finance Committee. 37[22. [xxx]] 23. The University shall not, without the prior approval of Certain the Government, divert earmarked funds for other purposes restrictions in respect of or upgrade any post or revise the scales of pay of its staff or financial matters. 37. Section 22 omitted by Act No.17 of 1985. 22 [Act No. 11 of 1982] implement any scheme which involves the contribution from the Government or create a post or posts resulting in a recurring liability on the Government either immediately or in future: Provided that the *[Executive Council] may authorize the creation and filling up of posts of teachers for a period not exceeding one year but any such post or posts shall not be continued or created afresh for any period beyond the said period of one year without the prior approval of the Government. CHAPTER VI. STATUTES AND REGULATIONS Statutes. 24. Subject to the provisions of this Act, the *[Executive Council] shall have power to make statutes for all or any of the following matters, namely:- (a) the constitution, powers and duties of the authorities of the University; (b) the powers, duties and conditions of service of the officers of the University other than the Chancellor; (c) the classification and the method of appointment of teachers of the University; (d) the holding of convocations to confer degrees; (e) the constitution of pension, insurance, gratuity or provident fund for the benefit of the officers, teachers and other employees of the University; (f) the registration of graduates and maintenance of a register of registered graduates; [Act No.11 of 1982] 23 (g) the administration of endowments and the institution of fellowships, travelling fellowships, scholarships, studentships, bursaries, exhibitions, medals and prizes and the conditions of award; (h) all other matters which by this Act are to be or may be provided by the statutes. 25. (1) The first statutes of the University are those set out Statutes how in the Schedule. made. (2) The *[Executive Council] may from time to time make new statutes or any statute in addition to the first statutes referred to in sub-section (1) and may amend or repeal any statute including the first statutes: Provided that the *[Executive Council] shall not make, amend or repeal any statute affecting the status, powers or constitution of any authority of the University until such authority has been given an opportunity of expressing an opinion in writing on the proposed changes, and any opinion so expressed shall be considered by the *[Executive Council]. (3) Every new statute or addition to the statutes or any amendment or repeal of a statute shall require the approval of the Chancellor who may assent thereto or withhold assent therefrom or remit the same to the *[Executive Council] for reconsideration. (4) A new statute or a statute amending or repealing and existing statute shall have no validity unless it has been assented to by the Chancellor. (5) Notwithstanding anything in the foregoing sub- sections, the Chancellor may make new or additional statutes or amend or repeal the statutes referred to in sub- 24 [Act No. 11 of 1982] section (1) during the period of three years immediately after the commencement of this Act: Provided that the Chancellor may, on the expiry of the said period of three years make within three years from the date of such expiry, such detailed statutes as he may consider necessary and such detailed statutes shall be laid before both Houses of the State Legislature. Regulations. 26. (1) The *[Academic Senate] shall have power to make regulations subject to the provisions of this Act, and such regulations may provide for all or any of the following matters, namely:- (a) the admission of students to the University or prescribing the examinations to be recognised as equivalent to University examinations; (b) the courses of study to be laid down and examinations and the conditions on which students shall be admitted to examinations for the degrees, diplomas certificates and titles of the University; (c) the grant of exemptions. (2) All regulations shall have effect from such date as the *[Academic Senate] may direct but every regulation made by the *[Academic Senate] shall be submitted, as soon as may be, to the *[Executive Council] for approval by a simple majority or refer it back to the *[Academic Senate] for reconsideration. 38[(3) Notwithstanding anything in sub-sections (1) and (2), it shall be competent for the *[Executive Council] to 38. Sub-section (3) of section 26 inserted by Act No.17 of 1985. [Act No.11 of 1982] 25 frame regulations in relation to matters entrusted to it by this Act.] 27. The *[Executive Council] shall prepare an annual report Annual report. of the University on or before such date as may be prescribed by the statutes. A copy of the report with a copy of the resolution thereon shall be submitted to the Government for information. 39[28. The Finance Officer shall prepare during each Annual Accounts. financial year the annual accounts of the University of the preceding year and submit them to the *[Executive Council] for consideration with the recommendations of the Finance Committee and thereafter submit them to such audit as the Government may direct before the end of the financial year. The accounts when audited shall be published in the 40Telangana Gazette and copies thereof together with copies of audit report shall be submitted to the *[Executive Council] not later than two years from the end of the financial year to which the accounts pertain and to the Government. 29. (1) The Finance Officer shall prepare before such date Financial as may be prescribed by the statutes the financial estimates Estimates. for the ensuring financial year along with the annual accounts whether audited or not, of the preceding financial year and after they are considered by the Finance Committee submit them to the *[Executive Council] for approval. (2) The Government shall fix the block grant for the University normally for a period of five years: 39. Sections 28 and 29 with marginal headings substituted by Act No.17 of 1985. 40. Substituted by G.O.Ms.No.23, Higher Education (UE) Department, dated 10.11.2014. 26 [Act No. 11 of 1982] Provided that any liability which the University may have incurred with the approval of the Government and which was not envisaged at the time of fixing the block grant shall, in addition to the block grant, be reimbursed.] Power to incur 30. The *[Executive Council] may, for reasons to be unforeseen recorded 41[xxx], incur any expenditure for which no expenditure. provision has been made in the budget or which is in excess of the amount provided in the budget. Conditions of 31. (1) Every employee shall be appointed under a written service of contract which shall be lodged with the Registrar and a copy employees and of which shall be furnished to the employee concerned. settlement of disputes. (2) Any dispute arising out of a contract between the University and any employee may be referred by the Vice- Chancellor to a grievances committee consisting of 42[such persons not being members] of the *[Executive Council] as may be nominated by the *[Executive Council]. Procedure of 32. Any student or candidate for an examination whose appeal in name has been removed from the rolls of the University by disciplinary cases the orders or resolution of the Vice-Chancellor, Discipline against students. Committee or Examination Committee as the case may be, and who has been debarred from appearing at the examinations of the University for more than one year, may within ten days of the date of communication of such orders or copy of such resolution to him appeal to the *[Executive Council] and the *[Executive Council] may confirm, modify or reverse the decision of the Vice-Chancellor or the Committee, as the case may be. 41. Omitted (in writing) by Act No.17 of 1985. 42. Substituted for the words "such members" by Act No.17 of 1985. [Act No.11 of 1982] 27 33. Every employee or student of the University shall, Right to appeal. notwithstanding anything contained in this Act, have a right to appeal within such time as may be prescribed by the statutes to the *[Executive Council] against the decision of any officer or authority of the University and thereupon the *[Executive Council] may confirm, modify or reverse the decision appealed against. 43[34. The University shall continue, for the benefit of its Pension, employees, in such manner and subject to such conditions Provident Fund etc., as may be prescribed by the statutes, such schemes of pension, insurance and provident funds as it may deem fit with the prior approval of the Government.] 35. If any difficulty arises in giving effect to the provisions Power to remove of this Act, the Government may, by order, make such difficulties. provision not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act as appear to them to be necessary or expedient for removing the difficulty: Provided that no such order shall be made under this section after the expiry of three years from the date of commencement of this Act. 36. Notwithstanding anything in this Act, and the statutes, Appointment of the first Vice-Chancellor, the first Registrar and the first the first Vice- Chancellor, the Finance Officer shall be appointed by the Chancellor on a first Registrar and salary to be fixed by him and each of the said officers shall the first Finance hold office for a period to be fixed by him but not exceeding Officer. three years. 43. Substituted with marginal heading by Act No.17 of 1985. 28 [Act No. 11 of 1982] THE SCHEDULE [see section 25 (1)] THE STATUTES OF THE UNIVERSITY 1. 44[(1) Subject to the provisions of sub-section (1A) of section 10, the Vice-Chancellor shall hold office for a term of three years from the date of his appointment and shall be eligible for reappointment to that office for another term of three years in the manner provided in sub-section (1) of section 10. (2) The Vice-Chancellor shall be paid such pay and allowances as may, by order, be specified by the Government from time to time. He shall be provided with a furnished official accommodation for which he shall pay ten percent of his salary towards rent. (2A) When the Vice-Chancellor is unable to exercise his powers, perform his functions and discharge his duties owing to absence, illness or any other cause or when the office of Vice-Chancellor is vacant, it shall be competent for the State Government to appoint a person to be in-charge Vice-Chancellor. The person so appointed as incharge Vice- Chancellor shall exercise the powers, perform the functions and discharge the duties of the Vice-Chancellor until the Vice-Chancellor assumes the office, or as the case may be, a new Vice-Chancellor is appointed in accordance with sub- section (1) of section10.] (3) It shall be competent for the ChanceIlor to accept the resignation of the Vice-Chancellor. (4) When the post of the Vice-Chancellor falls permanently vacant either by resignation or otherwise the 44. Clauses (1) and (2) substituted by Act No.13 of 1991. [Act No.11 of 1982] 29 vacancy shall be filled by the Chancellor by appointing another person as Vice-Chancellor and the Vice-Chancellor so appointed shall hold office for a full term of three years. (5) (a) The Vice-Chancellor shall, by virtue of his office be a member and Chairman of the 45[Executive Council, Academic Senate and] of the *[Planning and Monitoring Board]. He shall preside at the meetings of the convocations of the University in the absence of the Chancellor; (b) The Vice-Chancellor shall have power to convene meetings of the 45[Executive Council, Academic Senate and] the *[Planning and Monitoring Board]; 46[(c) The Vice-Chancellor shall be entitled to participate in any meeting of any authority of the University or of any committee thereof whether or not he is a member of such committee; but he shall not be entitled to vote thereat unless he is a member of the authority or committee concerned;] (d) It shall be the duty of the Vice-Chancellor to see that the provisions of this Act, the statutes and the regulations are duly observed and he may exercise all powers necessary for this purpose. (e) He shall have power to interpret the provisions of this Act the statutes and the regulations. 46[Any person or authority who does not agree with the interpretation may] within such time as may be prescribed by the regulations, appeal to the Chancellor: Provided that:- 45. Substituted for "Executive Council and" by Act No.17 of 1985. 46. Substituted by ibid. 30 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (i) if such interpretation was given at a meeting of the *[Executive Council], the appeal shall lie to the Chancellor direct; (ii) if such interpretation was given otherwise than at a meeting of the *[Executive Council], the appeal shall be forwarded to the Chancellor through the *[Executive Council]; The decision of the Chancellor on the appeal shall be final. (6) He shall give effect to the decision of the authorities of the University taken in accordance with the powers conferred by or under this Act. 47[THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL 2. (1) The Executive Council shall consist of the following persons, namely:- CLASS I – EX OFFICIO MEMBERS (i) the Vice-Chancellor; (ii) the Rector; (iii) the Secretary to Government in the Education Department or an officer in the Education Department nominated by the Government; (iv) the Secretary to Government in the Finance and Planning (Finance Wing) Department or an officer in the Finance and Planning (Finance Wing) Department nominated by the Government; 47. Statute 2 with heading substituted by Act No.13 of 1995. [Act No.11 of 1982] 31 (v) The Director of Higher Education/the Commissioner of Collegiate Education). Class II - Other Members (i) one senior professor of the University Colleges to be nominated by the Government; (ii) four eminent persons of whom one shall be from among the Vice-Chancellors of Universities specified in the schedule to the 48Telangana Universities Act, 1991 and the Act 4 of 1991. others from the fields of Industries or Commerce or Legal, Engineering or Medical Professions or from such other fields of public life as the Government may consider useful to the University, to be nominated by the Government. (2) Every member of the Executive Council other than Ex-Officio member shall hold office during the pleasure of the Governor. (3) The Executive Council shall meet atleast once in three months and may meet often if necessary. (4) Upon a requisition in writing signed by not less than one-third of the total number of members of the Executive Council, the Vice-Chancellor shall convene a meeting thereof on a date appointed by him which shall not be later than seven days from the date of receipt of requisition aforesaid. (5) In the absence of the Vice-Chancellor from any meeting of the Executive Council, the members present at the meeting shall choose one among themselves to preside over the meeting. 48. Substituted by G.O.Ms.No.28, Higher Education (UE) Department, dated 11.09.2015. 32 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (6) The quorum for a meeting of the Executive Council shall be one-third of the total number of members or six persons, whichever is less.] 49[THE ACADEMIC SENATE 3. The Academic Senate shall consist of the following persons, namely:- CLASS – I EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS: (1) all members of the Planning and Monitoring Board of the University; (2) all Directors of all Correspondent Schools of universities in the State; (3) the Director of Technical Education; (4) a nominee of the Indira Gandhi National Open University. CLASS – II MEMBERS TO BE NOMINATED BY THE GOVERNMENT: (1) one third of the total number of Professors or Co- ordinators of the University, by rotation. (2) five students of the University. CLASS – III ELECTED MEMBERS: Five members of the Legislative Assembly to be elected from among themselves by the members of the Legislative Assembly of whom one each shall belong to 49. Substituted by Act No.13 of 1991. [Act No.11 of 1982] 33 Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes. The election shall be held according to the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote and according to procedure prescribed by the statutes.] 50[PLANNING AND MONITORING BOARD 3A. (1) There shall be a Planning and Monitoring Board consisting of,- (i) the Vice-Chancellor (Chairman); (ii) two educationists nominated by the Government; (iii) two nominees of the University Grants Commission. (2) The Board shall be the principal planning and reviewing body and it shall also arrange for periodical monitoring of the development programmes and of teaching and research in the University.] 4. (1) Save as otherwise provided, 51[the Executive Council, the Academic Senate, the Finance Committee and] the *[Planning and Monitoring Board] shall be reconstituted at or about the same time every three years and the members of these authorities shall except in case of ex- officio members hold office as members thereof upto the date of next reconstitution. (2) Notwithstanding anything in clause (1) any vacancy in the said membership occurring before the next reconstitution or before the expiry of the prescribed period 50. (3A) with the heading substituted by Act No.13 of 1991. 51. Substituted for the "Executive Council, the Finance Committee and" by Act No.17 of 1985. 34 [Act No. 11 of 1982] shall be filled up as soon as conveniently may be in accordance with the provisions of this Act: Provided that no vacancy in the said membership occurring within six months before the next reconstitution shall be filled up until such reconstitution, unless the Vice- Chancellor decides that it shall be filled up earlier.

(3) No member of an authority specified in clause (1) who is appointed or nominated in his capacity as a holder of a particular office or appointment shall continue to be a member of such authority on his ceasing to be a member or the holder of the particular office or appointment. (4) Where an appointed or nominated member of an authority specified in clause (1) is appointed temporarily to any of the offices by virtue of which he is entitled to be a member of that authority ex-officio, he shall, by notice in writing signed by him and communicated to the Vice- Chancellor within seven clear days from the date of his taking charge of his temporary appointment, choose whether he wiIl continue to be a member of that authority by virtue of his appointment or nomination, or whether he will vacate office as such member and become a member ex- officio by virtue of his temporary appointment, and the choice, shall be final. On failure to make such choice, he shall be deemed to have vacated his office as an appointed or nominated member. Powers and functions of the *[Executive Council] 5. The *[Executive Council] shall have the foIlowing powers nameIy:- (1) to direct the form, custody and use of the common seal of the University. [Act No.11 of 1982] 35 (2) to hold, control and administer the property and funds of the University. (3) to enter into, vary, carryout and cancel contracts on behalf of the University in the exercise of performance of the powers and duties assigned to it by this Act and the statutes. (4) 52[(a) [xxx]] (b) to administer all funds placed at the disposal of the University for specific purposes. (5) (a) to appoint the teachers of the University below the rank of Assistant Professors; (b) to appoint the teachers of the University of and above the rank of Assistant Professors on the recommendation of the Selection Committee constituted, for the purpose: Provided that the *[Executive Council] may invite any person of high academic distinction and professional attainments to accept a post of Professor in the University and appoint him to that post; (c) to fix emoluments of the teachers of the University and define their duties and conditions of service. (6) to suspend, remove or dismiss the teachers of the University subject to such statutes as may be made in this behalf. (7) to appoint, dismiss, remove or suspend the employees of the University. 52. Omitted by Act No.17 of 1985. 36 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (8) to fix the emoluments of the employees of the University and define their duties and the conditions of service. (9) to award fellowships, travelling fellowships, scholarships, exhibitions, bursaries, studentships, medals and prizes in accordance with the rules laid down. (10) to appoint examiners in consultation with the Board of Studies and to fix their fees. (11) to conduct University Examinations and to approve and publish the results thereof. (12) to prescribe the fees to be charged for admission to the examinations, degrees, diplomas and oriental titles of the University. (13) to charge and collect such tuition and other fees as may be prescribed by the statutes for admission to courses of study in the University. 53[(14) [xxx] (15) [xxx] (16) [xxx]] (17) to delegate any of its powers to the Vice- Chancellor or to a committee from among its own members or to any employee of the University. (18) to regulate and determine all matters concerning the administration of the University in accordance with the statutes and the regulations, and to exercise such other 53. Omitted by Act No.17 of 1985. [Act No.11 of 1982] 37 powers or duties as may be conferred or imposed by this Act. Powers of the *[Academic Senate] 6. (1) The *[Academic Senate] shaIl, subject to the provisions of this Act and the Statutes, have the power by Regulations prescribing all courses of study and of determining curricula and have general control of teaching within the University and be responsible for the maintenance of the standards thereof. It shall have power to make Regulations consistent with this Act and the Statutes relating to all matters which by this Act and the Statutes may be provided for by Regulations and to amend or repeal such Regulations. (2) In particular and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing power, the *[Academic Senate] shall have power:- (a) to advise the *[Executive Council] on all academic matters including the control and the management of the libraries; 54[(b) [xxx] (c) to make recommendation to the *[Executive Council] for the selection of a study centre in the University area; (d) [xxx]] (e) to make Regulations regarding the enrolment of students to the University; 54. Items (b) and (d) of clause (2) of Statute 6 in Schedule are omitted by Act No.17 of 1985. 38 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (f) to make regulations regarding the examinations of the University and the conditions on which students shall be admitted to such examinations; (g) to make regulations relating to courses of study, leading to degrees, diplomas and titles of oriental learning in the University; (h) to make regulations, prescribing equivalence of examinations, degrees and diplomas of other Universities and Boards; (i) to make regulations prescribing the manner in which exemptions relating to the enrolment of students to examinations may be given; 55[(j) [xxx]] (k) to make recommendations to the *[Executive Council] regarding the qualifications to be prescribed for teachers in the University; (l) to make regulations for the encouragement of co- operation and reciprocity among study centres to promote academic life; 55[(m) [xxx]] 55[(n) [xxx]] (o) to exercise such other powers and perform such other duties, as may be conferred or imposed on it by or under the provisions of this Act. 55. Items (j), (m) and (n) of clause (2) of Statute 6 in Schedule are omitted by Act No.17 of 1985. [Act No.11 of 1982] 39 56[The Finance Committee 7. 57[(1) There shall be constituted a Finance Committee which shall be a sub-committee of the *[Executive Council] with the following as members, namely:- (a) the Vice-Chancellor (Chairman); (b) two members of the *[Executive Council] nominated by it; (c) one member of the *[Executive Council] to represent Banking or Accounting. (2) The Finance Officer shall be Secretary of the Finance Committee.] (3) The Finance Committee shall have the following duties, namely:- (a) to meet atleast twice every year to examine the accounts and to scrutinise proposals for expenditure; (b) to consider the annual accounts and financial estimates of the University prepared by the Finance Officer and laid before it; (c) to fix limits for the total recurring and non- recurring expenditure for the year based on the income and resources (which in the case of productive work, may include the proceeds of loans) and no expenditure shall be incurred by the University in excess of the limits so fixed. 56. Substituted by Act No.17 of 1985. 57. Clauses (1) and (2) substituted by Act No.13 of 1991. 40 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (4) No expenditure other than that provided in the budget for any year shall be incurred by the University without the approval of the Finance Committee.] 58[SELECTION COMMITTEE 8. (1) There shall be constituted a Selection Committee in regard to the appointment of Professors, Associate Professors (Readers) and Assistant Professors (Lecturers) which shall consist of the following, namely:- (i) the Vice-Chancellor; (ii) three experts from outside the University to be nominated by the Vice-Chancellor of whom atleast two shall be present in the Selection Committee; (iii) Chairman of the Board of Studies concerned; (iv) the Head of the Department concerned: Provided that no person shall participate in the meetings of the Selection Committee for any appointment if he or his near relative is a candidate for that appointment: Provided further that no teacher holding a post lower in rank than the one to which appointment is to be made, shall be a member of Selection Committee. (2) The Registrar shall be the Secretary of the Selection Committee. (3) Provisions shall be made in the Statutes in respect of such matters as may be considered necessary and not 58. Statute 8 with heading substituted by Act No.13 of 1991. [Act No.11 of 1982] 41 provided for in sub-sections (1) and (2) in order to ensure fair selections.] Constitution of Committees 9. All the authorities of the University shall have power to appoint Committees. Such Committees, may unless there be some special provision to the contrary, consist of members of the authority concerned and of such other persons, if any, as the authority in each case may think fit. Appointment of Teachers 10. (1) Save as otherwise provided every salaried Officer and Teacher of the University shall be appointed under a written contract, and the conditions of service relating to them, shall as far as possible be uniform except in respect of salaries payable to them. (2) The contract shall be lodged with the Registrar and a copy thereof shall be furnished to the officer or teacher concerned. Teaching, Admission of students and Recognition of Degree and Diplomas 11. The courses of study and curricula shall be those prescribed. (1) No student shall be eligible for admission to a course of study qualifying for admission to University examination unless he has passed the examination prescribed as qualifying for admission to such course or an examination recognised by the *[Planning and Monitoring Board] as equivalent thereto and possesses such other qualification, if any, as may be prescribed. 42 [Act No. 11 of 1982] (2) Every candidate for an University Examination shall unless exempted in accordance with the Regulations prescribed be an enrolled member of the University. (3) The University shall recognise by every degree conferred or diploma granted by any other University in the State as equivalent to the corresponding degree or diploma conferred or granted by the University. Disqualification for Membership 12. No person shall be qualified for nomination as a member of any of the authorities of the University if he: (a) is at the date of nomination of unsound mind, a minor, a deaf-mute or is suffering from leprosy; or (b) applies to be adjudicated as an insolvent or is an undischarged insolvent; or (c) has been convicted and sentenced by a criminal court to transportation or imprisonment for a period of more than one year for an offence involving moral turpitude unless such sentence has been reversed or the offence has been pardoned or a period of five years has elapsed from the date of the expiration of the sentence. Disputes as to constitution of Open University authorities 13. Save as otherwise provided, if any question arises whether a person has been duly appointed or nominated or is entitled to be a member of any Authority of the University, the question shall be referred to the Chancellor, whose decision thereon shall be final. [Act No.11 of 1982] 43 59[Constitution of Advisory Committee 14. The University shall have power to constitute an Advisory Committee to ascertain from time to time, the views and suggestions of the students in regard to the functioning of distance education. The constitution and functions of the Advisory Committee shall be such as may be provided by regulations.] * * * 59. Added by Act No.17 of 1985.