New Delhi: The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) on Thursday suspended the membership of Al-Falah University, Faridabad, after doctors affiliated with the institution were detained in connection with the Delhi car explosion near Red Fort that killed 12 people earlier this week. The AIU said the university was no longer in “good standing” and barred it from using the association’s name or logo in any capacity.
AIU cites lack of ‘good standing’
In an official notification issued on Thursday, the AIU stated that under its bye-laws, all universities remain members only as long as they are in “good standing.” The statement added,
“As per media reports, it has come to notice that Al-Falah University, Faridabad, Haryana, does not appear to be in good standing. Accordingly, the membership of AIU accorded to Al-Falah University, Faridabad, Haryana stands suspended with immediate effect.”
The suspension means that Al-Falah University can no longer participate in AIU activities or use its name and logo for academic, promotional, or administrative purposes until further notice.
NAAC issues show-cause notice
The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) has also served a show-cause notice to the university for falsely claiming accreditation despite failing to meet mandatory renewal requirements. Officials said the institution continued to display its accreditation status on its website and promotional materials even though its recognition had lapsed.
Sources in the Ministry of Education confirmed that the university has been asked to provide an explanation and furnish documents proving compliance with NAAC norms. Failure to respond satisfactorily could result in further action, including de-recognition.
University under scrutiny after Delhi blast
The development comes in the wake of the high-intensity car blast near the Red Fort Metro Station on Monday, which left 12 people dead and several injured. The explosion, which involved a Hyundai i20 car, has been confirmed by authorities as a terrorist attack.
Investigations later revealed that two doctors associated with Al-Falah University were among those detained by the Delhi Police’s special cell for questioning over their alleged links to Dr Umar Un Nabi, the prime suspect killed in the blast.
Following the arrests, intelligence agencies reportedly began reviewing the university’s student and staff records to determine whether the suspects had used institutional facilities or credentials to carry out any part of the operation.
AIU’s action follows growing scrutiny
The AIU’s decision to suspend Al-Falah’s membership is being viewed as part of a broader move to ensure accountability and uphold academic integrity among member institutions. Officials said such disciplinary actions are rare but necessary when a university’s activities raise “serious ethical or legal concerns.”
The association also clarified that the suspension would remain in place until the university clears its name and demonstrates compliance with AIU’s code of conduct and regulatory obligations.
Delhi blast probe continues
Meanwhile, the investigation into the Red Fort blast is continuing, with multiple agencies — including the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Delhi Police — working to uncover the wider network behind the attack. Authorities suspect a larger terror conspiracy involving modified vehicles and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) prepared for possible serial blasts across major cities.
Officials have so far arrested several suspects and recovered key evidence, including fertiliser components and electronic triggers used in the construction of explosives.