Delhi University (DU) has withheld the LLB degree and marksheets of former Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) president Ronak Khatri, citing outstanding dues of approximately ₹9 lakh related to guesthouse accommodations and catering expenses incurred during his tenure. Khatri, who served as DUSU president in the 2024-25 academic year and is affiliated with the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), has challenged the decision in the Delhi High Court, labelling it as arbitrary and politically motivated.
Khatri is a graduate of DU’s Campus Law Centre who completed his three-year LLB program in 2025.
He demitted office of DUSU president on August 16, 2025. After that, the university linked the release of his academic documents to the settlement of the dues, and withheld the certificates.
According to notices issued by the university, over ₹9 lakh was due for bookings of international guest house and catering bills between February and August 2025. The notice issued by the staff adviser of DUSU stated, “you will not be issued your marksheet or degree till the pending payment is not made by your side”. The staff adviser also wrote to the controller of examination directing that the release of degrees and marksheets to Khatri shall be withheld until the pending payments are cleared.
However, Ronak Khatri claimed that the booking were made in his capacity as DUSU president, and he is personally not liability for payments of the same. “These bookings were made for student union activities after seeking permission from university officials and under the supervision of the staff adviser. The expenses were meant to be cleared from the DUSU funds. Holding me personally liable is untenable,” he claimed.
“A provisional degree was to be issued, which is needed for enrollment with the Bar Council of Delhi, but the university has withheld it, saying there are pending dues as DUSU President that need to be paid,” Khatri told reporters.
He further alleged that the move has severely impacted his career prospects, as he cannot practice law without the necessary credentials.
However, DUSU staff adviser Surender Kumar said that no approval was granted for booking International Guest House. He said, “International Guest House does not fall under the venues permitted for DUSU activities that can be paid from the DUSU fund. No approval was given by me for such bookings.”
Khatri has moved Delhi High Court challenging the order, arguing that withholding academic certificates for non-academic reasons violates University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines and is an unlawful exercise of authority.
The Delhi High Court has taken cognisance of the matter and issued a notice to DU.
