What Led to the ED Raiding 18 Locations in Karnataka Over an Engineering Seat Scam?
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Synopsis
In a significant crackdown, the Enforcement Directorate conducts raids across 18 locations in Karnataka, unearthing a massive engineering seat scam. With over 2,000 seats blocked illegally during the 2024-25 academic year, the investigation reveals a web of fraud involving prominent engineering colleges. Discover the implications of this unfolding scandal in Karnataka's education sector.
Key Takeaways
- ED raids target multiple locations linked to an engineering seat scam.
- Over 2,000 seats were illegally blocked during the 2024-25 academic year.
- Involved institutions include BMS College and Akash Institute.
- Previous arrests by local police include a contract worker from the KEA.
- The investigation is ongoing, with significant implications for Karnataka's education sector.
Bengaluru, June 25 (NationPress) - On Wednesday, officials from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) initiated extensive raids at around 18 locations across Karnataka, including Bengaluru, as part of their investigation into a significant engineering seat scam.
Sources indicate that these operations are linked to an ongoing probe into a money laundering case involving the illegal reservation of student seats in various engineering institutions in Bengaluru.
The ED's focus during these raids was primarily directed at individuals associated with B.M.S. Engineering College, Akash Institute of Engineering, and other implicated parties, according to the sources.
This investigation pertains to fraudulent activities during the 2024-25 academic year, where more than 2,000 seats were unlawfully reserved.
Previously, the Malleshwaram police in Bengaluru apprehended 12 individuals, including a contract worker from the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA), related to this case.
Several engineering colleges received notices during that period. The ED has since taken over the case, which was first reported by local police.
The allegations assert that deserving candidates were cheated, while private colleges profited from the blocked seats.
An official statement from the ED is pending.
Karnataka's Higher Education Minister, M.C. Sudhakar, has voiced his dissatisfaction regarding the investigation conducted by the Bengaluru City Police.
“The city police have arrested a few individuals, all of whom are currently on bail. However, the investigation has yet to uncover the potential involvement of the private engineering colleges implicated in the seat blocking scandal,” he criticized.
Earlier, following a complaint by the KEA, a First Information Report (FIR) was filed on November 14, 2024, by the Bengaluru police.
BMS College of Engineering, Akash Institute of Engineering and Technology, and New Horizon College of Engineering were identified in the FIR as the suspected beneficiaries of the scam.
Despite the police arresting 10 individuals, including a contractual KEA employee, sources suggest that the colleges themselves have not yet faced scrutiny.
Point of View
The ED's ongoing investigation into the engineering seat scam reflects a broader issue within educational integrity in India. The allegations of fraud not only impact students but also tarnish the credibility of institutions involved. It is crucial for authorities to ensure transparency and accountability in maintaining trust in the educational system.
NationPress
25/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the engineering seat scam about?
The engineering seat scam involves the illegal blocking of over 2,000 student seats in various engineering colleges in Bengaluru, leading to allegations of fraud and money laundering.
How many locations were raided by the ED?
The Enforcement Directorate conducted raids at approximately 18 locations across Karnataka.
Which colleges are implicated in the scam?
Colleges such as BMS College of Engineering, Akash Institute of Engineering, and New Horizon College of Engineering are named in the FIR as alleged beneficiaries.
What actions have been taken by the police?
The Malleshwaram police previously arrested 12 individuals, including a contract employee from the Karnataka Examination Authority, related to the case.
What has the Karnataka Higher Education Minister said about the case?
Minister M.C. Sudhakar expressed dissatisfaction with the Bengaluru City Police's investigation, highlighting the need for deeper scrutiny of involved private colleges.
