- (1.) Rule, returnable on 25.08.2014. Hearing expedited. Learned Counsel appearing for the respective Respondents waive service.
(2.) We have heard the learned Counsel appearing for the parties. In view of urgency so expressed, we are inclined to pass this common interim order as the challenge in all these Petitions is essentially to the decision of AICTE denying 'Extension of Approval' to the existing institutions of the Petitioners and placing the institutions in 'no admission' category. In Writ Petition No. 6468 of 2014, AICTE has reduced the intake capacity of three Undergraduate Degree Courses and two Postgraduate Degree Courses.
(3.) "Technical education" and related aspects are controlled and governed by the All India Council for Technical Education Act, 1987 (For short, "AICTE Act"). The aim and object by the AICTE Act is to coordinate and integrate the development of technical education system at all levels throughout the country to provide and promote qualitative technical education in planned manner. The AICTE is required to regulate and ensure proper maintenance of norms and standards in technical education system. It also involves regular performance appraisal for technical institutions and Universities. The AICTE, therefore, is under obligation to control the norms and standards for common development of such education in the country.;