ED Cracks Down on Manav Bharti Fake Degree Scam: Rs 5.80 Cr Assets Attached

SHIMLA: In a major development in the infamous Manav Bharti University fake degree scam, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally attached seven immovable properties worth Rs 5.80 crore.

The properties, located in Haryana, Delhi, and Himachal Pradesh, belong to accused Ashoni Kanwar and were seized under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.

This is just the tip of the iceberg in a scam that has tarnished Himachal Pradesh's reputation. The total attachment in the case now stands at a staggering Rs 200 crore, with ED continuing its probe into one of the largest fake degree rackets in India.

The Manav Bharti University, based in Solan, has been accused of issuing over 36,000 fake degrees across various states.

The scam, which came to light in 2020, exposed a deeply rooted nexus between educational institutions and corruption.

Investigations revealed that degrees were sold for as much as Rs 1-3 lakh each, turning education into a thriving black-market enterprise.

The scam not only duped thousands of unsuspecting students but also jeopardized the credibility of Himachal's educational institutions.

Shockingly, many of these degrees were used to secure government jobs, raising questions about the integrity of public offices.

The ED’s recent action reflects its intent to corner all those involved in this brazen fraud.

With political and bureaucratic connections suspected, the probe has unearthed a trail of financial irregularities, money laundering, and property acquisitions linked to the scam’s masterminds.

As the noose tightens, the public awaits justice for the victims of this educational malpractice.