CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES
ACT, 2016
(Act No. III of 2016)
THE SRINAGAR AND JAMMU CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES
ACT, 2016
(Act No. III of 2016)
CONTENTS
Section
1. Short title and commence-
ment.
2. Definitions.
3. Incorporation.
4. Objects of the University.
5. Powers and functions of
Cluster University.
6. Approval of the Government.
7. Cluster University open to all
classes and creeds.
8. Affiliation restricted to educa-
tional institution sin the State.
9. Officers of the Cluster Univer-
sity.
10. The Chancellor.
11. The Pro-Chancellor.
12. The Vice-Chancellor.
13. Powers and duties of the
Vice-Chancellor.
Section.
14. Financial Advisor.
15. Registrar.
16. Controller of Examinations.
17. Other Officers.
18. Authorities.
19. University Council.
20. Powers and functions of the
University Council.
21. Syndicate.
22. Powers and functions of the
Syndicate.
23. Academic Council.
24. Powers and functions of the
Academic Council.
25. Faculties.
26. Powers of each Faculty.
27. The Deans.
28. Board of Studies.
226 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
Section.
29. Functions and powers of the
Board of Studies.
30. Board of Research Studies.
31. Powers and fuctions of the
Board of research Studies.
32. Board of Inspection.
33. Functions of the Board of
Inspection.
34. Selection Committees.
35. Other Authorities.
36. Audit of accounts.
37. Alteration in the designating of
a Government Officer.
38. Statutes.
39. Statutes how made.
40. Regulations.
41. regulations how made.
Section.
42. Annual report.
43. Disputes as to constitution of
Cluster University Authorities
or Bodies.
44. Filling of casual vacancies.
45. Proceedings of Cluster
University Authorities and
Bodies not invalidated by
vacancies.
46. Appointment of Special
Officer until Cluster University
Authorities are duly consti-
tuted.
47. Affiliation of State Educational
Institutions with the Cluster
University of Srinagar and
Cluster University of Jammu.
48. Removal of difficulties.
49. Transitional provisions.
–––––––
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 227
THE SRINAGAR AND JAMMU CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES
ACT, 2016
(Act No. III of 2016)
[Received the assent of the Governor on 8th July, 2016 and published in
the Government Gazette dated 8th July, 2016].
An Act to provide for the establishment of the Cluster University of the
Srinagar and the Cluster University of Jammu and for matters connected therewith
or incidental thereto.
Be it enacted by the Jammu and Kashmir State Legislature in the Sixty-
seventh Year of the Republic of India as follows:––
1. Short title and commencement.––(1) This Act may be called the Srinagar
and Jammu Cluster Universities Act, 2016.
(2) It shall come into force from the date of its publication in the Government
Gazette.
2. Definitions.––(1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires,––
(a) “Academic Council” means the Academic Council of the Cluster
University ;
(b) “Act” means the Srinagar and Jammu Cluster Universities Act, 2016 ;
(c) “Affiliated College” means an institution imparting instruction for the
Bachelor’s degree, Integrated Honours and Postgraduate courses with
an autonomous status recognised by the Cluster University concerned
in accordance with the provisions of this Act and the Statutes ;
(d) “Autonomous College” means an institution imparting instruction for
the Bachelor’s degree, Iintegrated Honours and Postgraduate courses
with an autonomous status recognised by the Cluster University
concerned in accordance with the provisions of this Act and the
Statutes ;
228 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
(e) “College” means an institution maintained or admitted to its
privileges by the Cluster University concerned and includes a
Constituent/ Autonomous/Affiliated College ;
(f) “Cluster University” means the Cluster University of Srinagar or the
Cluster University of Jammu, as the case may be, created by pooling
the resources of their existing constituent colleges ;
(g) “Constituent College” means the colleges constituting the Cluster
University and recognised as such by the Syndicate of the Cluster
University concerned in accordance with the provisions of this Act
and the Statutes ;
(h) “Faculties”, “Boards of Studies”, “Board of Inspection” and “Boards
of Research Studies” means the Faculties, Boards of Studies, Board of
Inspection and Boards of Research Studies of a Cluster University ;
(i) “Head of the Department” means the Head of a Cluster University
Teaching Department who has the status of a Professor or an Associate
Professor in the Cluster University and where any Cluster University
has no teaching faculty in a subject, the person duly appointed, for
the time being, by the University ;
(j) “Principal” means the Head of a College or a person duly appointed,
for the time being ;
(k) “Regulations” means Regulations made under section 41 of this Act ;
(l) “Statutes” means Statutes made under section 38 of this Act ;
(m) “Syndicate” means the Syndicate of a Cluster University ;
(n) “Teachers” include Professors, Associate Professors, Assistant
Professors, and any other persons imparting instructions in the
University or in any College maintained or admitted to its privileges
by the Cluster University ;
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 229
(o) “Teachers of the University” means persons appointed or recognized
by the University for the purpose of imparting instruction, in the
University or in any Constituent College ;
(p) “University Council” means the University Council of a Cluster
University.
3. Incorporation.––The Cluster University of Srinagar and the Cluster
University of Jammu shall be corporate bodies known by the names of the “Cluster
University of Srinagar” and the “Cluster University of Jammu”, each having
perpetual succession and a common seal with power to acquire and hold property,
movable and immovable, to transfer the same, to contract and to do all other things
necessary for the purpose of its constitution and may sue or be sued by its
corporate name as aforesaid.
4. Objects of the University.––The objects of the University shall be––
(a) to become a cluster of vibrant institutions to disseminate and advance
knowledge by providing instructional and research facilities in such
branches of learning as it may deem fit ;
(b) to act as a change agent by having special focus on the skill
development and creation of skilled workforce by undertaking industry
oriented teaching, training and research, extension programmes and
providing employable skills with a view to contribute to the
development of the society ;
(c) to make provisions for integrated courses in humanities, social science,
science and technology in its education programme ;
(d) to take appropriate measure for promoting innovations in teaching–
learning process and inter disciplinary studies and research ;
(e) to establish linkages with industry for promotion of science,
technology, entrepreneurial skills, innovation, etc to and adopt
innovative methods to achieve the status of a self reliant institution ;
and
230 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
(f) to pay special attention to the improvement of the social and economic
conditions and welfare of people and their intellectual, academic and
cultural development.
5. Powers and functions of Cluster University.––A Cluster University shall
have the following powers and functions, namely:––
(1) to provide for instruction in such branches of learning as the Cluster
University may deem fit and to make provision for research and for the
advancement and dissemination of knowledge ;
(2) to hold examinations, to grant degrees to and to confer other academic
distinctions on persons who––
(a) have pursued an approved course of study in a college of a
Cluster University or in any educational institution approved
for the purpose, or distant learners under conditions laid down
in the Statutes and Regulations ; or
(b) have carried on independent research under conditions laid down
in the Statutes ;
(3) to confer honorary degrees or other distinctions on approved persons
in the manner laid down in the Statutes ;
(4) to grant such diplomas to and to provide such lectures and instructions
for persons not being on the rolls of the Cluster University, as the
Cluster University may determine ;
(5) to co-operate with other Universities and authorities in such a manner
and for such purposes as the Cluster University may determine ;
(6) to institute Professorships, Associate Professorships, Assistant
Professorships and any other teaching posts required by the Cluster
University ;
(7) to establish and maintain colleges, to recognise colleges and other
institutions not maintained by the Cluster University and to withdraw
such recognition ;
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 231
(8) to inspect constituent, autonomous and affiliated colleges and other
institutions and places approved by the Cluster University for the
residence of students ;
(9) to demand and receive payments of such fees and other charges as
may be authorised by the Statutes and Regulations so as to achieve
the status of a completely self sustaining corporate body ;
(10) to obtain loans in furtherance of the objects of the Cluster
University ;
(11) to supervise and control the residence and discipline of students of
the Cluster University or of colleges and other institutions admitted or
affiliated to it and to make arrangements for promoting their health and
general welfare ;
(12) to institute and award fellowships, exhibitions, prizes and medals in
accordance with the Statutes and Regulations ;
(13) to endeavour for creation of resources and put the available resources
including human and infrastructural assets to optimal utilization so as
to become a self sustaining organisation ; and
(14) to do such other acts and things, whether incidental to the powers
aforesaid or not, as may be required in order to further the objects of
the Cluster University as a teaching, affiliating or examining body, and
to cultivate and promote arts, science and other branches of learning.
6. Approval of the Government.––Notwithstanding anything contained in
the foregoing section, any re-organisation or alteration in structure, pattern or
medium of education at the Cluster University level shall require the previous
approval of the Government.
7. Cluster University open to all classes and creeds.––Each Cluster
University shall be open to all persons irrespective of sex, caste, class or creed
and it shall not be lawful for a Cluster University to adopt or impose on any person
any test whatsoever of religious belief or profession in order to entitle him to a
certificate, diploma or degree of the Cluster University, or to serve as a teacher or
to hold any office in the Cluster University, or to enjoy or exercise any privileges
232 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
thereof, except where such test is specially prescribed by the Statutes, or, in respect
of any particular benefaction accepted by the Cluster University, where such test
is made a condition thereof by any testamentary or other instrument creating such
benefaction.
8. Affiliation restricted to educational institutions in the State.––
Notwithstanding contained anything in any law for the time being in force, no
educational institution outside the territory of the State shall be affiliated with, or
be admitted to any privileges of, a Cluster University under this Act.
9. Officers of the Cluster University.––The following shall be the officers of
a Cluster University:––
(1) the Chancellor ;
(2) the Pro-Chancellor ;
(3) the Vice-Chancellor ;
(4) the Financial Advisor ;
(5) the Educational Advisor ;
(6) the Registrar ;
(7) the Controller of Examinations ; and
(8) such officers as the Statutes may declare to be the officers of a Cluster
University.
10. The Chancellor.––(1) The Chief Minister of the State shall be the
Chancellor of the Cluster Universities. He shall be the Head of the Cluster
Universities and shall, when present, preside at the meetings of the Cluster
University Council and at the Convocations of the Cluster Universities.
(2) The Chancellor shall have such powers as may be conferred on him by
this Act or the Statutes.
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 233
(3) Every proposal for the conferment of any honorary degree shall be subject
to the confirmation of the Chancellor.
(4) The Chancellor may delegate to the Pro-Chancellor such of his powers
under this Act or the Statutes, as he may specify.
11. The Pro-Chancellor.––(1)The Minister Incharge for Higher Education of
the State shall be the ex-officio Pro-Chancellor of the Cluster Universities.
(2) The Pro-Chancellor shall, when present, in the absence of the Chancellor,
preside at the meetings of the University Council and at the Convocations of both
the Cluster Universities.
(3) The Pro-Chancellor shall have the right to cause an inspection to be
made, by such person or persons as he may direct, of a Cluster University, its
buildings, laboratories, equipment, and of any institutions associated with the
Cluster University and also of the examinations, teaching and other work conducted
or done by the Cluster University and to cause an inquiry to be made in like manner
in respect of any matter connected with the Cluster University. The Pro-Chancellor
shall in every case give notice to a Cluster University of his intention to cause an
inspection or inquiry to be made and the Cluster University concerned shall be
entitled to be represented there at.
(4) The Pro-Chancellor may address the Vice-Chancellor of the University
concerned with reference to the result of such inspection and inquiry and the Vice-
Chancellor shall place the same before the Syndicate and also the Cluster University
Council of the University concerned, if necessary, with such advice as the Pro-
Chancellor may offer upon the action to be taken thereon.
(5) The Vice-Chancellor of the Cluster University concerned shall then, within
such time as the Pro-Chancellor may fix, submit to him a report of the action taken
or proposed to be taken by the Syndicate together with the view which the
University Council concerned may have expressed on the report.
(6) If the Syndicate concerned does not, within a reasonable time, take action
to the satisfaction of the Pro-Chancellor, the Pro-Chancellor may, after considering
any explanation which the Syndicate concerned may furnish, issue such directions
in consultation with the Vice-Chancellor concerned as he may think fit.
234 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
12. The Vice- Chancellor.––(1)The Vice-Chancellor shall either be a whole-
time paid or a part-time honorary officer of a Cluster University as the Chancellor
may determine and shall be appointed by the Chancellor in consultation with the
Pro-Chancellor from amongst the persons whose names are submitted to him by a
Committee constituted in accordance with the provisions of sub-section (2).
(2) The Committee referred to in sub-section (1) shall consist of three
persons, namely:––
(a) two persons not connected with the Cluster University or any college
of that Cluster University to be nominated by the University Council ;
(b) a third person not connected with the Cluster University or any college
of that Cluster University to be nominated by the Chancellor, who
shall also be the Chairman of the Committee.
(3) The Committee constituted under sub-section (2) shall submit a panel of
three names to the Chancellor for appointment of the Vice-Chancellor.
(4) If the Chancellor does not consider any of the persons on the panel
recommended by the Committee suitable for appointment as Vice-Chancellor, he
may direct the Committee to prepare a fresh panel of three names for submission to
him or may direct to constitute a fresh Committee for this purpose.
(5) The Vice-Chancellor of a Cluster University shall hold office for
five years :
Provided that on the expiry of the term of his office, the Vice-Chancellor shall
be eligible for re-appointment for such term as the Chancellor may in consultation
with the Pro-Chancellor determine :
Provided further that the Vice-Chancellor shall not be removed from his
office except by order of the Chancellor passed in consultation with the Pro-
Chancellor, on the ground of misbehavior or incapacity or if it appears to the
Chancellor that the continuance of the Vice-Chancellor in office is detrimental to
the interests of the Cluster University, after due enquiry by such person who is or
has been a Judge of a High Court to be nominated by the Chancellor, in consultation
with the Pro-Chancellor, in which the Vice-Chancellor shall have an opportunity of
making his representation against such removal.
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 235
(6) The Vice-Chancellor of a Cluster University shall, in case he is a whole-
time paid officer, receive salary not exceeding the limit prescribed by the University
Council and other facilities as the Chancellor may determine, in addition to free
residential accommodation ; provided that in exceptional cases the Chancellor
may allow a higher salary in consultation with the Government. In case the Vice-
Chancellor is appointed on part-time honorary basis, he shall receive such
honorarium and other facilities as the Chancellor may determine in consultation
with the Government.
(7) Where any temporary vacancy of a Vice-Chancellor occurs by reason of
resignation, illness, leave or other cause, the University Council shall report the
same to the Chancellor who shall make such arrangement for carrying on the
duties of the Vice-Chancellor as he may think fit.
(8) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-section (5), the Vice-
Chancellor shall continue in office beyond the expiry of his term until his successor
is appointed and enters upon his office.
13. Powers and duties of the Vice-Chancellor.––(1)The Vice-Chancellor shall
be the Principal Executive and Academic Officer of a Cluster University and shall,
in the absence of the Chancellor and the Pro-Chancellor, preside over the meetings
of the University Council and at any convocation of the Cluster University. He
shall be an ex-officio member and Chairman of the Syndicate, Academic Council
and such other authorities and bodies as are provided under the provisions of this
Act, and shall be entitled to be present and to speak at any meeting of any authority
or body of the Cluster University concerned but shall not be entitled to vote there
at unless he is a member of the authority or the body concerned.
(2) It shall be the duty of the Vice-Chancellor to see that the provisions of
this Act, the Statutes and the Regulations are faithfully observed and he shall
have all powers necessary for the purpose.
(3) The Vice-Chancellor shall have power to convene meetings of the
University Council, the Syndicate, the Academic Council and joint meetings of
Faculties and Boards of Studies of the Cluster University concerned.
236 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
(4) The Vice-Chancellor may take action as he deems necessary in any
emergency which, in his opinion, calls for immediate action. He shall in such a case
and as soon as or may be thereafter, report his action to the officer, authority or
other body of the Cluster University concerned who or which would ordinarily
have dealt with the matter.
(5) Save as otherwise provided in this Act, the Vice-Chancellor of a Cluster
University shall have the powers to make appointments of the ministerial, technical
and inferior staff.
(6) The Vice-Chancellor shall give effect to the orders of the University
Council and the Syndicate of the Cluster University concerned regarding the
appointment, dismissal and suspension of persons in the employment of the Cluster
University and shall exercise general control over the affairs of the Cluster
University. He shall be responsible for the discipline of the Cluster University in
accordance with this Act, Statutes and Regulations.
(7) The Vice-Chancellor shall exercise such other powers as may be
prescribed by Statutes and Regulations.
(8) The Vice-Chancellor may delegate any of his powers under this Act or the
Statutes and Regulations made thereunder to any other officer or body of the
Cluster University concerned.
14. Financial Advisor.––(1)The Administrative Secretary to Government,
Finance Department, or any other officer nominated by the Government of Jammu
and Kashmir shall be the ex-officio Financial Advisor to the Cluster Universities.
(2) The Financial Advisor shall exercise general supervision over the funds
of the Cluster University and shall advise it as regards its financial policy.
(3) The Financial Advisor shall be an ex-officio member of the University
Council and the Syndicate of the Cluster Universities.
(4) The Financial Advisor shall––
(a) present annual estimates and the statement of accounts to the Syndicate
and the University Council ; and
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 237
(b) exercise such other powers and perform such other duties as may be
prescribed by the Statutes and Regulations.
15. Registrar.––(1) The Registrar of a Cluster University shall be a whole-
time officer and shall be appointed by the University Council on the recommendation
of the Selection Committee, constituted under section 34 of this Act. The terms
and conditions of service and the emoluments of the Registrar shall be such as
prescribed by the University Council.
(2) The Registrar of a Cluster University shall act as the Secretary of the
University Council and the Boards of Research Studies and other bodies of the
Cluster University.
(3) The Registrar of a Cluster University shall, subject to the sanction of the
Vice-Chancellor and subject to the Regulations that may be framed in this behalf,
control the ministerial, technical and inferior staff of the Cluster University
concerned.
(4) The Registrar of a Cluster University shall be the custodian of the records,
the common seal and such other property of the Cluster University concerned as
the University Council or Syndicate may commit to his charge.
(5) The Registrar of a Cluster University shall have power to realise and
receive all moneys due to the Cluster University and sign and grant receipts for the
same, to make all disbursements on account of the Cluster University concerned
and, subject to provisions of Statutes, sign such cheques or other instruments as
may be necessary for the purpose.
(6)The Registrar of a Cluster University shall issue under his signatures
notice convening meetings of the University Council, the Syndicate and the Boards
of Research Studies of the Cluster University concerned.
(7) The Registrar shall, in the execution of his duties, be subject to the
immediate direction and control of the Vice-Chancellor and shall render such
assistance to the Vice-Chancellor as may be required by him in the performance of
his official duties.
(8) The Registrar of a Cluster University shall exercise such other powers
and perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the Statutes and the
238 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
Regulations or as may be assigned to him by any authority of the Cluster University
concerned.
(9) The Registrar may, with the previous approval of the Vice-Chancellor,
delegate any of his powers prescribed under the provisions of this Act or the
Statutes or the Regulations made thereunder to any other officer of the Cluster
University.
16. Controller of Examinations.––(1)The Controller of Examinations of a
Cluster University shall be a whole-time officer of the Cluster University concerned
and shall be appointed by the University Council on the recommendation of the
Selection Committee constituted in accordance with the provisions of section 34
of this Act on such terms and conditions as the University Council may from time
to time prescribe.
(2) It shall be the duty of the Controller of Examinations of a Cluster University
to make arrangements connected with the setting and printing of question papers
for all the examinations held by the Cluster University concerned including their
safe custody and all other matters connected therewith.
(3) Subject to directions of the Syndicate, the Controller of Examinations of
a Cluster University shall make all arrangements for the conduct of examinations of
the Cluster University concerned.
(4) Subject to directions of the Syndicate, the Controller of Examinations of
a Cluster University shall arrange all items of the examination work such as dispatch
and transit of answer books and question papers, evaluation of answer scripts,
tabulation of results, complaints against question papers set for the examinations,
use of unfair means, publication and rechecking / re-evaluation of results and
other related matters.
(5)The Controller of Examinations of a Cluster University shall exercise such
other powers and perform such other duties as may be prescribed under the
Statutes and Regulations from time to time.
(6) The Controller of Examinations of a Cluster University shall, in the
execution of his duties, be subject to the immediate direction and control of the
Vice-Chancellor of the Cluster University concerned and shall render such
assistance to the Vice-Chancellor as may be required by him in the performance of
his official duties.
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 239
17. Other Officers.––Save as otherwise expressly provided in this Act, the
procedure for appointment and the powers of the officers of the Cluster University
other than the Chancellor, the Pro-Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor, the Financial
Advisor, the Educational Advisor, the Registrar and the Controller of Examinations
shall be prescribed by the Statutes.
18. Authorities.––The following shall be the authorities of a Cluster
University:––
(1) the University Council ;
(2) the Syndicate ;
(3) the Academic Council ;
(4) the Faculties ;
(5) the Boards of Studies ;
(6) the Boards of Research Studies ;
(7) the Board of Inspection ; and
(8) such other authorities as may be declared by the Statutes to be the
authorities of the Cluster University.
19. University Council.––(1)There shall be a University Council in a Cluster
University consisting of the following members, namely:––
(i) the Chancellor ;
(ii) the Pro-Chancellor ;
(iii) the Vice-Chancellor of the Cluster University concerned ;
(iv) the Vice-Chancellor of the other Cluster University established under
the provisions of this Act ;
(v) the Financial Advisor ;
240 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
(vi) the Educational Advisor, Administrative Secretary to the Government,
Higher Education Department, J&K Government or the officer
designated by the Government to be incharge of Higher Education ;
(vii) Principals of all the constituent colleges of the Cluster University
concerned ;
(viii) two Deans of Faculties of the Cluster University concerned nominated
by the Chancellor by rotation ;
(ix) two Principals of the autonomous / affiliated colleges to be nominated
by the Chancellor in consultation with Pro-Chancellor ; and
(x) two nominees of the Chancellor.
(2) The period for which members nominated under (viii) to (x) of sub-section
(1) shall hold office, would be as prescribed in the Statutes in this behalf.
(3)The meetings of the University Council of a Cluster University shall be
presided over by the Chancellor, when present. In his absence, the Pro-Chancellor
shall preside and in the absence of both the Chancellor and the Pro-Chancellor, the
Vice-Chancellor of the Cluster University concerned shall preside.
20. Powers and functions of the University Council.––The University
Council of a Cluster University shall be the supreme authority of the Cluster
University and shall have the following powers, namely:––
(a) to make Statutes under this Act and to amend and repeal the same in
consultation with the Syndicate ;
(b) to make Regulations in consultation with the Syndicate ;
(c) to approve the financial estimates framed by the Syndicate of the
Cluster University ;
(d) to approve plans of development and expansion of the Cluster
University ;
(e) to consider and pass resolutions on the annual reports ;
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 241
(f) save as otherwise provided in this Act, to appoint officers of the
status of Joint Registrar, Deputy Librarian and above and teachers
of the status of Associate Professors and above and to define their
duties :
Provided that no officer or teacher shall be appointed by a University Council
until provision has been made for his salary in the approved budget of the Cluster
University concerned :
Provided further that all appointments (permanent or temporary) to the posts
of officers or teachers referred to in this section shall be made by the Cluster
University Council on the recommendation of the Selection Committee constituted
for the purpose in accordance with the provisions of section 34 of this Act, and on
such terms and conditions as may be prescribed by the Statutes :
Provided also that the Vice-Chancellor may make appointments of teachers
referred to in this section as a temporary measure for a period not exceeding six
months to carry on the work and if the recommendations of the Selection Committee
are not received within a period of six months, the Vice-Chancellor may extend the
appointment, if any, made by him, for the duration of the academic session with the
approval of the University Council ;
(g) to exercise such other powers and perform such other duties as may
be conferred or imposed upon it by this Act or the Statutes ;
(h) to constitute committees for specific purposes and to assign such
duties to them as it deems fit ;
(i) to delegate such of its powers to any officer or authority of the Cluster
University as it may deem fit ; provided that such delegation is made
by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members of the
University Council ; and
(j) to exercise such other powers of the Cluster University as are not
otherwise provided for in this Act and the Statutes and Regulations
made thereunder.
21. Syndicate.––(1)The Syndicate shall be the Chief Executive Authority
except in respect of the matters falling within the purview of the University Council
242 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
concerned in accordance with the provisions of this Act and it shall consist of the
following members, namely:––
(i) the Vice-Chancellor ;
(ii) the Financial Advisor ;
(iii) the Educational Advisor ;
(iv) Principals of all the constituent colleges of the Cluster University ;
(v) two Deans of the Faculties of the Cluster University by rotation to be
nominated by the Vice-Chancellor ;
(vi) two Deans of Faculties of the other Cluster University by rotation to
be nominated by the Chancellor ;
(vii) one member of the Academic Council of the Cluster University
concerned nominated by the Council from amongst its members ;
(viii) two members of the Syndicate of the other Cluster University
nominated by that body ; and
(ix) three nominees of the Chancellor.
(2) The terms and conditions of the office of members of a Syndicate other
than ex-officio members shall be such as may be prescribed by the Statutes in this
behalf.
22. Powers and functions of the Syndicate.—(1)Subject to the provisions of
this Act, the Statutes and the Regulations, the Syndicate of a Cluster University
shall exercise and perform the following powers and functions:––
(a) to frame the budget estimates of the Cluster University and to submit
these to the University Council at a time to be prescribed by Statutes ;
(b) to recommend the draft Statutes and Regulations or amendments or
revocation thereof and other proposals for consideration by the
University Council ;
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 243
(c) to hold control, and administer the funds, property and other assets of
the Cluster University :
Provided that no expenditure shall be incurred which has not been included
in the approved estimates except with the sanction of the University Council :
Provided further that the Syndicate shall have powers of re-appropriation in
accordance with the Regulations to be prescribed in this behalf ;
(d) save as otherwise provided in this Act, to appoint officers (below the
status of Joint Registrar and Deputy Librarian) and teachers (below
the status of an Associate Professor) and to define their duties :
Provided that no officer or teacher shall be appointed by a Syndicate until
provision has been made for his salary in the approved budget of the Cluster
University concerned :
Provided further that all appointments (permanent or temporary) to the posts
of officers or teachers referred to in this section shall be made by the Syndicate on
the recommendations of the Selection Committee constituted for the purpose in
accordance with the provisions of section 34 of this Act and on such terms and
conditions as may be prescribed by the Statutes :
Provided also that the Vice-Chancellor may make appointments of teachers
referred to in this section as a temporary measure for a period not exceeding six
months to carry on the work and if the recommendations of the Selection Committee
are not received within a period of six months, the Vice-Chancellor of the Cluster
University may extend the appointments, if any, made by him, for the duration of
the academic session with the approval of the Syndicate ;
(e) to admit new colleges to the privileges of affiliated or constituent
colleges of the Cluster University subject to the conditions to be laid
down in the Statutes ;
(f) to arrange for and direct the periodical and special inspection of the
colleges and other institutions ;
(g) to award scholarships, prizes, fellowships, exhibitions, bursaries and other
such awards in accordance with the procedure prescribed in this behalf ;
244 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
(h) to control and manage the Libraries of the Cluster University concerned
;
(i) to provide buildings, premises, furniture, apparatus, equipment and
other means and facilities needed for carrying on the work of the
Cluster University concerned ;
(j) to invest any moneys belonging to the Cluster University concerned
including any unapplied income in any of the approved securities, or
to place in fixed deposit in any bank, approved by the Government in
this behalf, any portion of such moneys not required immediately for
expenditure ;
(k) to demand and receive such fees as may from time to time be prescribed
by Statutes and Regulations ;
(l) to constitute committees for specific purposes and to assign such
duties to them as may be deemed necessary ;
(m) to recommend to the University Council the plans for development
and expansion of the Cluster University ;
(n) to appoint paper setters and examiners for all the examinations held by
the Cluster University in accordance with the procedure prescribed in
the Statutes ;
(o) to give directions for holding of examinations, compilation and
publication of results ;
(p) to give directions for the editing, printing and publishing of such text-
books for various examinations of the Cluster University as may be
considered necessary for this purpose ;
(q) to maintain proper standards of teaching and examination in
consultation with the Academic Council of the Cluster University
concerned ;
(r) to enter into, vary, carry out and cancel contracts on behalf of the
Cluster University ;
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 245
(s) to direct the form, custody and use of the common seal of the Cluster
University ;
(t) to accept or transfer any movable or immovable property on behalf of
the Cluster University concerned ;
(u) to exercise such other powers and perform such other duties as may
be conferred upon or assigned to it by this Act or the Statutes ; and
(v) to delegate, whenever necessary, appropriate financial and
administrative powers to the Vice-Chancellor, the Registrar, the
Principals of Constituent Colleges, the Heads of the Post-graduate
Departments, the Controller of Examinations or any other officer of the
Cluster University concerned.
(2) Any difference or disagreement arising between the Syndicate and the
Vice-Chancellor with regard to any decision taken by the Syndicate may be referred
by the Vice-Chancellor to the Chancellor. The Chancellor shall refer back such
decision to the Syndicate for re-consideration. In case the Syndicate endorses its
earlier decision by a two-thirds majority, such decision shall be deemed to be final.
23. Academic Council.––The Academic Council of a Cluster University shall
consist of the following persons, all of whom shall be ex-officio members:––
(i) The Vice-Chancellor of the Cluster University concerned ;
(ii) Principals of the Constituent Colleges or Autonomous Colleges or
Affiliated Colleges of the Cluster University concerned nominated by
the Vice-Chancellor ;
(iii) The Deans of Faculties of the Cluster University concerned ;
(iv) The Heads of Departments of the Cluster University concerned having
the status of Professors or Associate Professors ;
(v) Four Professors / Associate Professors from constituent/autonomous/
affiliated colleges of the Cluster University concerned representing
subjects other than those represented by the Principals, nominated by
the Vice-Chancellor ;
246 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
(vi) Deans of the faculties of the other Cluster University established under
the provision of this Act ; and
(vii) Two Professors of the other Cluster University established under the
provisions of this Act .
24. Powers and functions of the Academic Council.––(1)The Academic
Council of a Cluster University shall have the following powers and functions:––
(a) to control and regulate the standards of teaching and examinations in
the Cluster University ;
(b) to prescribe the syllabi and the courses of study for all the examinations
held by the Cluster University ;
(c) to make proposals to the Syndicate and the University Council for
the institution of Professorships, Associate Professorships, Assistant
Professorships, or other teaching posts and re-appropriating
positions in various subjects (on sufficient justifications) in regard
to their duties ;
(d) to formulate, modify or revise, subject to control of the Syndicate and
the University Council, schemes for the constitution of Faculties and
for the assignment of subjects to the Faculties ;
(e) to nominate teachers or specialists to the Faculties ;
(f) to promote research within the Cluster University and to acquire reports
of such research from persons engaged therein ;
(g) to advise the Syndicate and the University Council on academic
matters ; and
(h) to make proposals to the higher authorities of the Cluster University
for supplementing the teaching provided in the Constituent,
Autonomous and Affiliated Colleges.
(2) The Academic Council of a Cluster University shall have the powers to
appoint a Standing Committee of the members of the Academic Council of which
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 247
not less than two thirds shall be Cluster University Professors, Associate Professors,
Principals, or teachers of Constituent, Autonomous and Affiliated Colleges not
lower in rank than that of a Professor or Associate Professor and to delegate to it
such of its powers as it may deem fit. The Standing Committee shall have power to
invite experts, whenever necessary, for advice on a particular matter under
consideration.
25. Faculties.––(1)The Cluster Universities of Srinagar and Jammu shall
have the faculties one each for Arts, Science, Social Sciences, Commerce, Education
and such other faculties as may be prescribed by the Statutes of the Cluster
University from time to time.
(2) Each of the faculties of Arts, Science, Social Sciences, Commerce and
Education shall consist of :––
(i) The Professors and Associate Professors of the Cluster University
Schools comprising the Faculty ;
(ii) Professors or Associate Professors, in case there are no Professors in
the concerned subject, representing the Constituent, Autonomous
and Affiliated Colleges of the Cluster University in each subject
comprising each Faculty ;
(iii) two persons other than teachers nominated to the Faculty by the
Academic Council possessing expert knowledge of the subject,
comprising the Faculty.
26. Powers of each faculty.––Each Faculty shall have the following powers
and functions, namely:––
(a) subject to the control of the Academic Council to organize the
teaching work of the Cluster University in the subjects assigned to
the Faculty ;
(b) to suggest to the Academic Council the syllabi and courses of studies
for different examinations after consulting the Boards of Studies ;
(c) to recommend to the Academic Council the conditions for the award of
degrees, diplomas and other distinctions ;
248 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
(d) to deal with any matter referred to it by the University Council or the
Syndicate or the Academic Council ;
(e) to discharge such other functions as may be prescribed by the Statutes
and Regulations ;
(f) to transact such other business as may be approved by the Deans of
the Faculties.
27. The Deans.––(1) There shall be a Dean of each Faculty who shall be
nominated by the Vice-Chancellor by rotation according to seniority in the manner
and subject to such conditions as may be prescribed by the Statutes :
Provided that the office of the Dean of a Faculty shall be held by a member
of the Faculty who is a Cluster University Professor in a subject comprised in the
Faculty and in case there is no Cluster University Professor in any subject comprised
in a Faculty, it may be held by a member of the Faculty who is the Principal or
Senior most Professor/Associate Professor in a College in the same faculty :
Provided further that no person shall hold the office of the Dean for more
than two consecutive terms except where there is no other person eligible to hold
the office.
(2) The Dean of Faculty shall be responsible for the due observance of the
Statutes and Regulations relating to his Faculty.
(3) Each Faculty shall comprise such subjects of study as may be prescribed
by the Regulations.
28. Boards of Studies.––(1) In a Cluster University there shall be a Board of
Studies for a subject or subjects comprised in a Faculty in accordance with the
provisions of the Regulations.
(2) Each Board of Studies shall consist of the following members,
namely:––
(a) the Professors of the Cluster University Department in the subject
assigned to the Board, if there are any ;
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 249
(b) the Associate Professors of the Cluster University Department in the
subject assigned to the Board, if there are any ;
(c) the Senior most Professor or Associate Professor, in case there is no
Professor, from the Department in the subject concerned from each
Constituent College ;
(d) the Senior most Professor or Associate Professor, in case there is no
Professor, from the Department in the subject concerned from each
Autonomous /Affiliated college, not lower in rank than that of a
Professor or Associate Professor ;
(e) one person who is not a teacher in any affiliated or constituent college
of the Cluster University or a Department of the Cluster University,
nominated by the Faculty :
Provided that where it is found that the Board of Studies in any subject is
not adequately represented, the Vice-Chancellor of the Cluster University concerned
may authorize co-option of teachers in the subject from colleges or the Cluster
University Departments to the extent of three members.
(3) Head of the Cluster University Department senior to all other Professors
in the Department shall be the Convener and in case there is no Professor of the
Cluster University Department in a subject the Board of Studies shall elect one of
its members as the Convener of the Board.
(4) The terms and conditions of the office of the members of a Board of
Studies shall be such as may be prescribed by the Statutes in this behalf.
(5) Where a Board of Studies comprises more than one subject, the Vice-
Chancellor may constitute the Board on similar lines so as to ensure that each
subject comprised in the Board is adequately represented on it; provided that the
total number of members of the Board so constituted does not exceed ten.
(6) Notwithstanding anything contained in this section or any Statute or
Regulation made there under, each Cluster University may have a Board of Post-
graduate Studies for each subject in which Post-graduate instructions are imparted,
and a Board of Undergraduate Studies for the subject or subjects in which under-
graduate instructions are imparted. The composition of these Boards shall be such
250 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
as may be determined by the Chancellor in consultation with the Vice-Chancellor
of the Cluster University concerned.
29. Functions and powers of the Board of studies.––(1) It shall be the duty
of Board of Studies to make suggestions to the Faculty concerned regarding––
(a) Syllabi for the subject or subjects of instruction ;
(b) Combination of subjects permitted in various courses ;
(c) Identification of new courses of study ;
(d) Appointment of paper-setters and examiners ; and
(e) Any matter referred to it by the University Council, the Syndicate, the
Academic Council or the Faculty concerned.
(2) The Boards of Studies shall also discharge such other functions as may
be prescribed by the Statutes or the Regulations.
30. Board of Research Studies.––(1)There shall be Boards of Research
Studies, one each for Humanities, Science, Social Science and such other fields of
study as may be specified by the Syndicate concerned after having consulted the
Academic Council of the Cluster University concerned. Each Board shall consist
of the Vice-Chancellor, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, the Registrar, the Dean and the
Heads of the Cluster University Departments of the subjects comprised in the
Faculty with power to co-opt members :
Provided that an expert in the subjects concerned may be invited to advise
on a particular matter relating to each subject. The co-opted members shall hold
office for a period of three years. The Vice-Chancellor shall be ex-officio Chairman
of each Board and in his absence, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor shall act as Chairman
and the Registrar shall be the Members–Secretary of the Board.
(2) Each Board shall organize research studies under the guidance of the
Academic Council and in accordance with the Statutes and Regulations prescribed
in this behalf.
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 251
31. Powers and functions of the Board of Research Studies.––Each Board
shall have the following powers and functions, namely:––
(a) to consider and grant applications for registration for the research
degrees in the light of the recommendations made by the Head of the
Post-graduate Department concerned ;
(b) to appoint supervisors for the guidance of research studies ;
(c) to prescribe to maximum number of research scholars to be guided by
an approved supervisor ;
(d) to submit to the Academic Council suggestions and proposals for
organising or improvement of the research studies in the Cluster
University ; and
(e) to consider any other matter referred to it by the Academic Council,
the Syndicate and the University Council.
32. Board of Inspection.––There shall be a Board of Inspection in a Cluster
University consisting of the following members, namely:––
(a) a designated officer of the Cluster University to be named as Dean,
College Development Council ;
(b) Principals of the constituent colleges of the cluster university ;
(c) two Deans of Faculties of the Cluster University concerned by rotation,
nominated by the Vice-Chancellor.
(2) The terms and conditions of the office of the members of the Board of
Inspection shall be such as may be prescribed by the Statutes in this behalf.
33. Functions of the Board of Inspection.––(1)Subject to the provisions of
this Act and the Statutes and Regulations made thereunder, the Board of Inspection
shall perform the following functions:––
(a) receive all applications for recognition or affiliation of colleges and
other teaching institutions including all applications for recognition
252 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
in new courses or subjects referred to it by the Syndicate and cause an
inspection to be made and lay its report before the Syndicate for
decision ;
(b) appoint inspectors for the inspection of a college once at least within
a period of three years after the grant of the privileges of an affiliated
or constituent college or after the inspection last held, consider the
report of the inspectors and forward it to the Syndicate with its
recommendations.
(2) The inspection of colleges and other teaching institutions applying for
affiliation or recognition shall be conducted by a Committee to be appointed by
the Board of Inspection. In the case of a college applying for recognition in new
courses or subjects the Committee of Inspection shall consist of the following
members:––
(a) One member of the Board of Inspection nominated by the Vice-
Chancellor ;
(b) The Heads of the Cluster University Departments concerned, if there
are any in the subjects ; and
(c) The Dean of the Faculty concerned.
34. Selection Committees.––(1)Save as otherwise provided in this Act, there
shall be Selection Committees in a Cluster University comprising the following
members for selection of teachers and officers for appointment/recognition in the
Cluster University concerned:––
(A) Committees for appointment of teachers:
(a) For Associate Professors and Assistant Professors or equivalent
post––The Committee for appointment of Associate Professors
and Assistant Professors shall be same as may be prescribed by
the Regulations of the University Grants Commission ;
(b) For Professors, Associate Professors and Assistant Professors
or equivalent post––The Committee for appointment of
Professors, Associate Professors and Assistant Professors shall
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 253
be same as may be prescribed by the Regulations of the University
Grants Commission.
(B) Committee for recognizing teachers for the Cluster University,
amongst the teachers of the Higher Education Department––The
Committee for recognizing teachers for Cluster University from amongst
the teachers of Higher Education Department shall consist of,––
(i) Vice-Chancellor (Chairman) ;
(ii) Dean of the Concerned Faculty of the University ;
(iii) Subject Expert to be nominated by the Academic Council of the
University ;
(iv) A member of the Syndicate concerned, nominated by the Vice-
Chancellor ;
(v) Registrar.
(C) Committee for appointment of the officers of the status of the Joint
Registrar, Deputy Librarian and above––The Committee for
appointment of Joint Registrar and Deputy Librarian shall consist
of,––
(i) Vice-Chancellor (Chairman) ;
(ii) Financial Advisor ;
(iii) Educational Advisor ;
(iv) Senior most Principal from amongst the constituent colleges of
the Cluster University ; and
(v) a member of the University Council concerned, nominated by
the Chancellor.
(D) Committee for appointment of officers below the status of the Joint
Registrar and Deputy Librarian––The Committee for appointment of
254 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
officers below the status of the Joint Registrar and Deputy Librarian
shall consist of,––
(i) Vice-Chancellor (Chairman) ;
(ii) Financial Advisor ;
(iii) Educational Advisor ;
(iv) A member of the Syndicate concerned, nominated by the Vice-
Chancellor ;
(v) Registrar.
(2) The majority of members shall form the quorum of the Selection
Committees as provided under sub-section (1).
35. Other Authorities.––The constitution, powers and duties of such other
authorities as may be provided the Status to be authorities of the Cluster University
shall be such as may be prescribed by Statutes.
36. Audit of Accounts.––The Accounts of a Cluster University shall, once in
every year and at the intervals of not more than fifteen months be audited by
auditors appointed by the Government and a copy of the accounts together with
the auditors’ report, shall be published in the Government Gazette.
37. Alteration in the designating of a Government Officer.––Where any
provision of this Act or the Statutes or Regulations refers to any officer of the
Government by designation then, if that designation is altered or the office held by
such officer ceases to exist, the reference to that designation shall be construed as
reference to the altered designation or as the case may be, to such corresponding
officer as the Government may direct.
38. Statutes.––Subject to the provisions of this Act, the Statutes may provide
for all or any of the following matters, namely:––
(a) the holding of Convocation by a Cluster University to confer degrees ;
(b) the conferment of Honorary Degree ;
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 255
(c) the institution of Fellowships, Scholarships, Exhibitions, Bursaries,
Medals and Prizes ;
(d) the conditions of service of the Vice-Chancellor and other officers of
the Cluster University ;
(e) the designation and powers of the officers of the Cluster University ;
(f) the constitution, powers and duties of the authorities of the Cluster
University ;
(g) the conditions for recognition and affiliation of colleges and other
institutions to the Cluster University ;
(h) the classification of teachers employed by the Cluster University ;
(i) the constitution of pension or general provident fund or contributory
provident fund or New Pension Scheme (NPS) for the benefit of the
officers, teachers and other servants employed by the Cluster
University ;
(j) the conditions under which students shall be admitted, to the
examinations conducted by the Cluster University, and be eligible for
degrees, diplomas or certificates ;
(k) the fees to be charged for admission to the examinations and the
Departments of the Cluster University ;
(l) the conditions and mode of employment and the duties of examiners
and paper setters ;
(m) the conduct of examinations ;
(n) the admission of students to constituent and affiliated colleges ;
(o) the number, qualifications and emoluments of teachers employed by
the Cluster University; and
(p) all matters which by this Act are to be or may be prescribed by the
Statutes.
256 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
39. Statutes how made.––(1) Subject to the provisions of this Act, the
Statutes may be amended or repealed or added to by Statutes made by the University
Council in the manner hereinafter appearing.
(2) The University Council may of its own motion take into consideration the
draft of any Statute submitted to it by one of its own members :
Provided that in any such case, before a Statute is passed, the opinion of the
Syndicate or if the draft of such a Statute affects the powers, duties or emoluments
of any officer, teacher, authority or board, a report from the person or body concerned
together with the opinion of the Syndicate shall be taken into consideration by the
University Council.
(3) The Syndicate of a Cluster University may propose to the University
Council the draft of any Statute to be passed by the University Council. Such draft
shall be considered by the University Council at its next meeting. The University
Council may approve such draft and pass the Statute, or may reject it, or may
return it to the Syndicate for reconsideration either in whole or in part, together
with any amendments which the University Council may suggest. After any draft
so returned has been further considered by the Syndicate together with any
amendments suggested by the University Council, it shall again be presented to
the University Council with the report of the Syndicate and the University Council
may then deal with the draft in such manner as it may think proper.
(4) (a) When the University Council has passed a Statute, it shall be submitted
to the Chancellor who may assent to it or may withhold his assent or may refer it
back to the University Council for further consideration.
(b) If the University Council rejects the draft of a Statute proposed by the
Syndicate, the draft shall be submitted to the Chancellor who may refer it back to
the University Council for further consideration.
(c) A Statute passed by the University Council shall not become valid until
assent thereto of Chancellor has been notified.
(5) The Syndicate shall not propose the draft of any Statute or of any
amendment of a Statute––
(a) affecting the status, powers or constitution of an authority of the
Cluster University until such authority has been given an opportunity
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 257
of expressing an opinion upon the proposal. Any opinion so expressed
shall be in writing and shall be considered by the University Council
and shall be submitted to the Chancellor ; and
(b) affecting the conditions of recognition and affiliation of constituent,
autonomous and affiliated colleges to the Cluster University concerned
after consultation with the Academic Council concerned.
40. Regulations.––The authorities and the bodies of the Cluster University
may recommend to the Cluster University Council Regulations consistent with
this Act and the Statutes providing for all or any of the following matters :––
(a) the procedure to be observed at their meetings and the number of
members required to form a quorum ;
(b) the notice to be given of the meetings and of business to be
considered there at, the keeping of records of their proceedings and
similar matters ;
(c) all matters which by this Act or the Statutes are to be prescribed by the
Regulations ;
(d) the conditions of residence of students ;
(e) the discipline of students ;
(f) the classification or inclusion of subjects of study in various
Faculties ;
(g) the constitution, powers and duties of the various Boards of the Cluster
University ;
(h) the periodical inspection of constituent, autonomous or affiliated
colleges and other institutions.
41. Regulations how made.––(1)The University Council of a Cluster
University shall make Regulations in consultation with the Syndicate after receiving
drafts from the authorities and bodies of the Cluster University :
258 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
Provided that the University Council shall not consider the draft of any
Regulations regarding classification or inclusion of the subjects of study in the
various Faculties, otherwise than on the recommendations of the Academic Council.
(2) Regulations shall not be made for those matters which under section 38
of this Act may be provided for by the Statutes.
42. Annual Report.––The Annual Report of a Cluster University shall be
prepared at the close of a financial year under the directions of the Syndicate and
shall be submitted to and considered by the Cluster University Council.
43. Disputes as to constitution of Cluster University Authorities or
Bodies.––If any question arises whether any person has been duly elected,
appointed or co-opted as, or is entitled to be, a member of any authority or other
body of the Cluster University, or whether any decision of the Cluster University
or of any of its bodies, authorities or committees is in conformity with the Act, the
Statutes or the Regulations, the matter shall be referred to the Chancellor whose
decision thereon shall be final.
44. Filling of Casual vacancies.––(1)All casual vacancies among the
members (other than ex-officio members) of any authority or other body of a
Cluster University shall be filled, as soon as conveniently may be, by the persons
or body who appointed, elected or co-opted the member whose place has become
vacant, and the person appointed, elected or co-opted, to a casual vacancy, shall
be a member of such authority or body for the residue of the term for which the
person whose place he fills, would have been a member.
(2) A person who is a member of an Authority of a Cluster University as a
representative of another body whether of the Cluster University or outside, shall
retain his seat on the Cluster University Authority, so long as he continues to be
member of the body by which he was appointed or elected and thereafter till his
successor is duly appointed.
45. Proceedings of Cluster University Authorities and Bodies not
invalidated by vacancies.––No act or proceedings of any authority or other body
or committee of a Cluster University shall be invalid merely by reason of the
existence of a vacancy or vacancies among its members or by reason of some
CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2010 259
person having taken part in the proceedings who is subsequently found not to
have been entitled to do so.
46. Appointment of Special officer until Cluster University Authorities are
duly constituted.––(1) At any time after the enforcement of this Act, and until such
time as the two Cluster Universities and their Authorities shall have been duly
constituted, or until such time as the Chancellor may desire, a Special Officer shall
be appointed by the Chancellor for a Cluster University.
(2) Subject to the superintendence of the Vice-Chancellor, the Special Officer
shall frame the Statutes and Regulations as may be necessary to bring the Statutes
and Regulations in conformity with the provisions of this Act. The modifications,
alterations and additions proposed by the Special Officer shall, if approved by the
Chancellor be deemed to have been made by the competent authority under this
Act and shall continue to be in force until altered or superseded by the authority
constituted under this Act.
47. Affiliation of State Educational Institutions with the Cluster University
of Srinagar and Cluster University of Jammu.––(1)Notwithstanding anything
contained in this Act or the Statutes with regard to the conditions of the recognition
and affiliation of colleges and other educational institutions, Amar Singh College,
Srinagar, Sri Pratap College, Srinagar, Government College for Women, M. A. Road,
Srinagar, Government Degree College, Bemina, Srinagar and Government College
of Education, Srinagar shall be the constituent colleges of the Cluster University
of Srinagar whereas the Government Gandhi Memorial Science College, Jammu,
Moulana Azad Memorial College, Jammu, S. P. M. R. College of Commerce, Jammu,
Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu and Government College
of Education, Jammu shall constitute the Constituent Colleges of the Cluster
University of Jammu immediately after this Act comes in to force.
(2) De-affiliation of the constituent colleges of the Cluster Universities from
the present affiliating Universities, that is the University of Kashmir and University
of Jammu, shall be completed in a phased manner to facilitate a smooth completion
of the courses by the students already enrolled in the Constituent Colleges as per
their present affiliation.
48. Removal difficulties.––If any difficulty arises as to the first constitution
of any authority of a Cluster University after the commencement of this Act, or
260 CLUSTER UNIVERSITIES ACT, 2016
otherwise in giving effect to the provisions of this Act, the Government may by
order do anything which appears to it necessary for the purpose of removing the
difficulty.
49. Transitional provisions.––Notwithstanding anything contained in this
Act or any Statute or Regulation made thereunder, the appointment of the first
Vice-Chancellors, the first Pro-Vice-Chancellors, the first Registrars and the first
Controllers of Examinations of the Cluster Universities constituted under this Act
shall be made by the Chancellor in consultation with the Pro-Chancellor, and, until
the first appointment as aforesaid is made, the Chancellor may after consultation
with the Pro-Chancellor, make provisional appointments on the said posts, on
such terms and conditions and for such period, as he deems appropriate.
_____