In Brief
A batch of engineering colleges sought AICTE approval for new courses and increased intake. AICTE approved them, but JNTU (the affiliating university) required State Government NOC before granting affiliation. The High Court's interim orders directed admissions to proceed, holding that State approval was unnecessary once AICTE approved. The Supreme Court reversed, holding that JNTU's regulations validly require State NOC before affiliation. The State's role in assessing educational needs and preventing course proliferation remains valid and concurrent with AICTE approval. Interim orders admitting students before affiliation is complete risk irretrievable prejudice if affiliation is later denied. The case was disposed with directions for JNTU to complete affiliation within ten days.
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