It is a privilege to be the Ombudsperson at NIILM University, Kaithal. It is an exciting time for me to have joined the university. Although I started in this role in January -2023, in a very short time I’ve been inspired by the students, administrative leaders, staff and faculty I have met. I have heard many stories from students about ongoing challenges – including challenges with online learning, academic integrity matters, fee appeals, issues of privacy, and the requirement to attest to their vaccination status.

I appreciate the honesty and integrity of the students who come to our office for guidance in navigating the implications of certain university policies, as well as the various interpretations and applications of these policies by different departments and faculty members. I also appreciate the cooperation and support of faculty and administrative leaders who have welcomed me and shown willingness to work with our office to ensure we collectively do our best, not only to find a fair resolution to matters of concern but also to work toward ensuring university policies and procedures are within the highest degree of procedural fairness.

I truly understand the importance, and sometimes the complexity, of ensuring procedural fairness and natural justice. One of my goals will be to continue the work of the Office of the Ombudsperson to advocate for fairness and to strive for greater clarity regarding university policies and procedures and greater transparency with respect to the decision-making process underlying these policies and procedures. Transparency is fundamental to procedural fairness because it ensures greater accountability. It also increases clarity and consistency in decision making.

I am confident that by working together – students, faculty, administrative leaders, and other stakeholders – we can reach the highest level of procedural fairness.

Prof (Dr.) Anil Kumar

Ombudsperson