St Stephen's College has appointed Susan Elias as its first woman principal, marking a historic moment amidst ongoing disputes with Delhi University over UGC regulations.
Key Points
- St Stephen's College appointed Susan Elias as its new principal, the first woman to hold the position.
- Delhi University objected to the appointment, citing violations of UGC regulations.
- The university sought intervention from the University Grants Commission regarding the appointment process.
- The college proceeded with the appointment despite the ongoing dispute with Delhi University.
- The former principal, John Varghese, may or may not remain at the college as faculty.
Despite objections from the Delhi University (DU), St Stephen's College has proceeded with the appointment of its 14th principal, with Susan Elias taking charge as the principal of the college on Monday, according to sources.
DU Objections to Principal Appointment
Elias's appointment was announced in a notification on May 12, after which DU wrote to the college, asking it not to proceed with the appointment, claiming violation of the University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations.
The university also wrote to the UGC seeking intervention.
Former Principal's Future
An official on the condition of anonymity said, "The former principal, John Varghese, wrote a kind of parting email to everyone on Sunday. There is no confirmation yet on whether he will stay in the college as faculty or not."
Dispute Over Faculty Position
In the latest dispute, the college also wrote to the college, objecting to proposals of absorbing Varghese as a faculty of the English department.
Meanwhile, the official added, "Whenever a principal takes charge, there is a sort of ceremony. However, as of now, we are not aware of any such formal gathering."
A Historic Milestone
Elias is the first woman principal of the college in its 145-year history, since its founding in 1881.
© 2026