Court rules that immediate expulsion justified under college's code of conduct to ensure safety and uphold reputation
In a significant ruling, the Madras High Court has dismissed an appeal challenging the expulsion of students from Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies, Chennai, who were charged with the heinous crime of kidnapping a fellow student. The decision, delivered by a division bench comprising Chief Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari and Justice G. Arul Murugan, affirmed the college's authority to expel students involved in serious criminal activities, even if such acts occur off-campus.
The appellants, U. Dinesh Kumar and others, were pursuing an LL.B program at the respondent college. A criminal case was registered against them under Sections 140(2) and 142 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, following allegations of kidnapping a co-student and demanding a ransom of Rs. 2 lakhs. The college, in response to the gravity of the allegations, expelled the students on July 11, 2025, to maintain a safe and conducive educational environment.
The appellants contended that their expulsion was premature, arguing that the college should have conducted an inquiry through a committee before making such a drastic decision. They emphasized that the mere registration of an FIR should not have led to immediate expulsion without an opportunity for defense.
However, the court, agreeing with the respondent's argument, held that the college acted within its rights under its code of conduct. The bench highlighted that the code permits expulsion for misconduct, including activities off-campus that adversely affect the institution's interests and the safety of its students. The court underscored the college's duty to protect its reputation and ensure student safety, justifying the immediate expulsion in light of the serious charges.
The judgment emphasized that the appellants' involvement in kidnapping, a grave violation of student ethics, required prompt action to prevent fear and maintain morale among other students. The court noted that further inquiry was unnecessary given the seriousness of the misconduct and its impact on the college community.
The ruling marks a reaffirmation of educational institutions' authority to enforce disciplinary measures and underscores the importance of maintaining a secure learning environment. The decision is likely to resonate across educational institutions, reinforcing the precedence of safety and reputation over procedural delays in cases of severe misconduct.
Bottom line:-
A college has the authority to expel students involved in criminal activities, particularly heinous crimes, even if committed off-campus, as per the code of conduct. Such actions are necessary to uphold the safety and morale of other students and protect the reputation of the institution.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 Sections 140(2) and 142
