Susan Elias assumed office as the 14th principal of St Stephen’s College on Monday, despite objections from the University of Delhi (DU), according to sources.

Her appointment was formally announced in a notification dated May 12. However, soon after, DU wrote to the college advising it not to proceed with the appointment, alleging that University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations had not been properly followed. The university subsequently approached the UGC seeking intervention in the matter.

DU registrar Vikas Gupta said the university was awaiting further directions from the regulatory body. “We have already written to the UGC seeking intervention. We will wait for further instructions,” he said.

Amid the ongoing dispute, the principal’s page on the college website remained blank on Monday, while former principal John Varghese was still listed as faculty in the English department. His profile continues to identify him as principal, even after stepping down from the role.

An official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Varghese had sent a farewell email to staff on Sunday, though it remains unclear whether he will continue in the college as faculty.

Tensions have also emerged over internal administrative decisions, with objections reportedly raised regarding proposals to accommodate Varghese within the English department.

According to another official, no formal ceremony marking the transition had been confirmed. “Usually, there is a formal gathering when a principal takes charge, but we are not aware of any such event at this stage,” the official said.

Elias becomes the first woman to head St Stephen’s College in its 145-year history since its establishment in 1881.

The development highlights ongoing friction between Delhi University and St Stephen’s College over governance, administrative authority, and institutional autonomy.