The University of Delhi has formally objected to the appointment of Professor Susan Elias as principal of St. Stephen’s College, claiming that the selection committee contravened the 2018 University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations. Elias, who is set to become the college's first female principal, was appointed in a landmark decision for the institution. The university's statement, issued by Registrar Vikas Gupta, noted that the college failed to request the nomination of experts as required by UGC guidelines. The university has directed St. Stephen’s to halt the appointment and reconstitute the selection committee accordingly. This incident is part of a broader history of disputes between the University of Delhi and St. Stephen’s College over governance issues, including admissions and faculty appointments, particularly concerning the college's status as a Christian minority institution. Experts have pointed out the need for clearer regulations regarding minority institutions, as St. Stephen's has faced unique challenges compared to other similar colleges. The ongoing tensions reflect a struggle between the college's autonomy and the university's regulatory framework.