Karnataka: ABVP says financial irregularities rampant at Maharani Cluster University
Allegations of financial irregularities and administrative lapses have been levied against the Maharani Cluster University in Bengaluru, with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) Karnataka unit submitting a formal complaint to the Lokayukta, the Chief Minister, and the Higher Education Department seeking a comprehensive investigation.
According to the complaint, large-scale financial mismanagement, document manipulation, and misuse of public funds have been reported within the university, particularly in the Computer Science department. It is alleged that fictitious academic activities such as “Invitee Talks” were created on paper, and funds amounting to lakhs of rupees were withdrawn in the name of conducting these events, which reportedly never took place. Payments of up to Rs.48,000 per session were allegedly made to individuals shown as speakers, many of whom either did not attend or were not even present in the country at the time.
The ABVP has further claimed that through such fraudulent activities alone, more than two crore of public money has been misappropriated. Additional irregularities include fake bills, forged GST details, non-existent PAN information, and fabricated quotations from private firms for procurement of goods and services. In one instance, bills worth Rs.1,83,443 were allegedly generated using fake documentation. There are also allegations that GST classifications were misused to falsely bill expenses related to electrical repairs, fan installations, and antivirus software.
The complaint highlights that despite claims of providing all necessary facilities to students, the ground reality reflects poor infrastructure, lack of basic amenities, and non-functional academic activities. It is also alleged that some faculty members have continued to remain in service beyond retirement, thereby restricting opportunities for new appointments.
The student body has reportedly declined drastically from around 11,000 to 4,000 over the past decade, indicating a loss of trust and deteriorating academic standards.
The complaint also points to inadequate facilities despite the collection of fees under various heads such as sports, cultural activities, and library services. Issues such as lack of clean drinking water, absence of CCTV cameras for women’s safety, and poor hostel conditions have been raised. Calling the situation alarming, the ABVP has demanded immediate registration of an FIR, a Lokayukta-led investigation, and a forensic audit by competent authorities. It has also sought suspension of officials involved and recovery of misused funds. The organization has urged the government to intervene promptly to ensure transparency, accountability, and restoration of quality in public education institutions.
Also Read: Karnataka: Govt unveils draft policy to tackle student mobile addiction
One comment
G. Dsouza
After a series of meetings convened by the Temporary Vice-Chancellor, Ms. Vanishri, our investigation at the university has uncovered troubling developments. A director allegedly involved in the scam is now said to be victimising his subordinates, particularly women lecturers and professors.
One such professor, reportedly facing severe backlash, was visibly distressed and in tears. She alleged that if she refused to sign certain documents, she would be subjected to abusive language in Kannada targeting not only her but also her family members.
It is further claimed that the Internal Committee, which is expected to address such grievances, has been reluctant to intervene. This raises serious concerns about the challenges faced by faculty members. If such treatment is being meted out to staff, it prompts an even deeper concern about the safety and well-being of female students on campus.
Given the gravity of the situation, there is a pressing need to bring these matters to the attention of the State Women’s Commission for appropriate action.