The complete media release is as follows:

“Attention of the University Grants Commission is drawn to several news items regarding an organization referred to as ‘Sharia University’ or ‘Batticaloa Campus’ located in Poonani in the Eastern province.

The Commission wishes to state that, as per the University Act 1978 (as amended) University Grants Commission is mandated only to plan and coordinate university education and regulate the administration of 15 state universities that come under the purview of the University Grants Commission.

University Grants Commission categorically states that no organization by the name of ‘Sharia University’ or ‘Batticaloa Campus’ has ever requested permission, nor given authority by the Commission to conduct degree courses.”