Delhi University (DU) has instructed St Stephen’s College, located in Delhi, India, to cease the appointment process for its new principal, Susan Elias, who was set to become the first woman to hold the position from June 1. The university raised concerns regarding compliance with the University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations, 2018, specifically citing that the selection committee was not constituted according to the mandated guidelines. DU Registrar Vikas Gupta emphasized that since the college is fully funded by the central government, adherence to UGC rules is mandatory. The letter from DU referenced Clause 5 of the UGC Regulations, which outlines the necessary composition of selection committees for appointing college principals and professors. It highlighted the requirement for the committee to include nominees from the vice-chancellor, higher education experts, and subject experts. Furthermore, it stated that for minority institutions, the selection must include nominees from approved panels. The university concluded that any recommendations made by the improperly formed committee are invalid and has directed the college to reconvene the selection committee in accordance with UGC norms.