A person who discovers a fake degree institute should first collect evidence such as admission receipts, fee payments, advertisements, degree certificates, messages, emails, and other documents. The institute's recognition status can also be checked through the University Grants Commission (UGC), which maintains an official list of fake universities.
A complaint can be submitted to the UGC through its e-Samadhaan grievance portal. UGC can issue notices and warnings to unauthorized institutions and may refer matters to the concerned State Government for further action.
If students have been cheated financially or provided fake degrees, they can also file a police complaint/FIR against the persons responsible. Government authorities have specifically directed State Governments to take legal action, including registering FIRs against fake institutions operating in violation of the law.
Depending on the circumstances, the authorities may investigate the institute, stop its operations, prosecute those responsible, and take action for cheating, fraud, or violations of applicable education laws. Students who paid fees may also explore appropriate legal remedies for recovery of their money.
It is important not to use or submit a suspected fake degree for employment, admission, or government purposes until its validity has been verified, as doing so can create additional legal problems. UGC currently advises students and parents to verify the authenticity of higher educational institutions before taking admission.
